01/24/2026
β οΈ Winter Weather Safety Notice β Town of Hancock β οΈ
Due to the severe snow and ice storm forecast for this weekend, the Town of Hancock wants to ensure all residents stay safe, warm, and informed. Hazardous travel conditions, potential power outages, and dangerously cold temperatures are expected. Hancock NY is expecting upwards of 10-18" of snow according to the National Weather Service, please get supplies early and stay warm, and stay indoors as much as possible.
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π§ Road Safety Tips
β’ Avoid unnecessary travel during the storm, especially after dark.
β’ Roads may be snow-covered or icy, even if they appear clear.
β’ If you must drive:
β’ Reduce speed and allow extra stopping distance.
β’ Keep headlights on and fully clear snow and ice from your vehicle.
β’ Carry emergency supplies such as blankets, water, snacks, and a phone charger.
β’ Stay clear of snowplows and give them plenty of room to work.
β’ If your vehicle begins to slide, do not slam on the brakes β ease off the accelerator and steer gently.
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π₯ Home Heating Safety Tips
β’ Use space heaters safely:
β’ Keep them at least 3 feet away from anything flammable.
β’ Never leave them unattended or use them while sleeping.
β’ Never use ovens, grills, or generators indoors, as this can cause deadly carbon monoxide buildup.
β’ Ensure carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are working and have fresh batteries.
β’ Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to help prevent pipes from freezing.
β’ If using a fireplace or wood stove, make sure vents and chimneys are clear and properly ventilated.
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π§ Town of Hancock Warming Center
If you lose power or heat during the storm, Hancock Town Hall
π 661 W Main Street
will open as a Warming and Safety Center beginning at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 24th.
Anyone in need is encouraged to come in, get warm, and shelter safely until conditions improve.
πΎ The warming center is pet-friendly β please bring your pets so no one is left out in the cold.
π If you are unable to drive or cannot safely reach Town Hall, please call:
π 607-287-2317
Arrangements will be made to assist with transportation.
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π Additional Regional Warming Centers
The following locations will also be available as warming stations for residents within their fire coverage areas during the anticipated winter storm:
β οΈ Note: Preston Area School has very limited power capabilities and should be considered a last-resort option. At this time, we do not expect it to be needed, as the storm is expected to produce lighter-weight snow.
Preston Area School
1493 Crosstown Hwy
Lakewood, PA
Northern Wayne Fire Company
1633 Crosstown Hwy
Lakewood, PA
Equinunk Volunteer Fire Company
Lookout Station ONLY
2625 Hancock Hwy
Equinunk, PA
Hancock Volunteer Fire Department
(For residents within the fire coverage area, including Starlight, Winterdale, and Scott Township)
24501 NY-97
Hancock, NY
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π Emergency Contacts
For residents wishing to use Pennsylvania warming locations, please contact:
Michael Schuman β Wayne County EMA Deputy Director
π± 570-390-9217
Dan Harmuth β Wayne County EMA Director
π± 570-390-9216
For residents within the Hancock Fire coverage area:
Fire Chief Blaise Bojo
π± 607-427-0238