Providence using '3 P's' of storm planning

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) – Providence has a plan in place on how to combat the upcoming nor’easter.

Preparing, pretreating and plowing are the ‘Three P’s’ that Providence follows when preparing for a big storm. 

In addition to the dozens of city trucks that will hit the streets beginning early Friday morning, Providence has hired an additional 120 vendors to help keep the essential roadways clear.

“Just use common sense,” warned Public Safety Commissioner Steven Pare, “If you don’t need to be out stay off the streets and let the men and women do their jobs.”

City crews plan to work in shifts around the clock, even after the last flake has fallen.

“We are looking at a 36-48 hour period of time,” said Pare.

Eyewitness News was told there are plenty of city supplies, but not a lot of money.

“This is about public safety, the budget can’t get in the way of cleaning streets,” he said.

Several Firefighters are asking if you live near a fire hydrant to make sure you dig them out, because it could save your house or even your life.