Team Pete Snow Call procedures - safety paramount Published Dec. 7, 2006 By Stefan Bocchino 21st Space Wing Public Affairs PETERSON AFB, Colo. -- Driving conditions in Colorado can change drastically in a short time during the winter months. Those changes can bring safety concerns for drivers. Peterson Air Force Base has several procedures in place to minimize the risk during inclement weather. "The recommended thing to do if there is a weather concern is to call the Peterson Snow Information Line, or more commonly called Snow Call Line," said Maj. Colby Hoefar, 21st Civil Engineer Squadron chief of operations. "The system is in place to reduce the risk of driving in inclement weather." Snow Call is a recorded phone message with updated information on weather procedures and includes any delays or base closure information. The phone number should be posted in all workplaces. Supervisors should also ensure all of their people are familiar with the Snow Call Line number and calling procedures. This procedure informs Team Pete members when it is safe to be on the road, said Major Hoefar. During diminished weather conditions, the fewer people on the road the better. This will help snow removal personnel in clearing the roads and make for a safer journey. "More than likely, if there is a change in reporting due to weather, that weather is accompanied by diminished road conditions," said Lt. Col. Liz Roper, 21st Space Wing Safety Office chief. "Situations like these tend to force an overload of vehicles at the gates. That's one reason why it's important everyone understands what to do when the base has delayed reporting, early release or a base closure." People who work here fall into two categories during inclement weather. They are either essential personnel or non-essential personnel. Essential personnel are the minimum number of people required to keep critical activities functioning until additional people can arrive safely. Non-essential personnel are people whose presence can be delayed for short periods of time without impacting the mission. "During delays and closures, it's critical people do not come on base any earlier than indicated in the delay or closure," said Col. Jay G. Santee, 21st Space Wing commander. "This means that even if people don't have to go to work, they don't use the time to go to the gym, commissary or other such activities. The reason for the delay or closure is to give the road crews time to clean up the roads, not for personnel to complete errands or work out." In addition to the Snow Call Line, delays and closures are advertised on local television and radio stations. The use of a recall roster is also a way of informing people. Even if there is no delay, personnel should use common sense before reporting in. "If the roads turn icy or bad weather suddenly hits without warning, remember, safety always comes first," Colonel Santee said. Early release is another procedure used in poor weather conditions. This procedure allows people to depart from work earlier than normal. This is usually done in conjunction with ZIP codes to reduce traffic during bad weather. The Snow Call Line recordings are updated during inclement weather by 5 a.m. The Snow Call Line number is 556-SNOW (7669), or go to www.peterson.af.mil.