Cass Sheriff says keep emergency number signs clear

This emergency services number sign isn't covered by the snow but is partially hidden from view by mounds of snow pushed up around it from plowing. It could be covered under by any significant new snowfall.

By Travis G. Grimler

January 29, 2020 10:00 AM

Cass County Sheriff Tom Burch reminds residents to make sure that their rural address sign, commonly referred to as their “blue number sign,” is free of snow and ice.

This winter’s snow is piling up, and in some instances is covering up address signs, making it difficult for responders to find a residence in the event of an emergency. The sheriff's department reminds citizens to remove the snow from their address sign or remind their snowplow operator not to cover up the sign, ensuring that it is visible from both directions.

Having the sign easily visible will help ensure a timely response from emergency personnel in the event of an emergency.

In accordance with the policy the county board adopted Aug. 7, 2001, after the initial installation of the blue property number signs, the signs become the responsibility of the property owner. If the blue property sign or post becomes damaged or needs replacement, the landowner may contact the highway department for a replacement sign and/or post, at their expense. It is also the owner’s responsibility to install replacement signs and posts.

The cost of a replacement sign is $20. The cost of a replacement post is $5. It may take two to three weeks for a replacement sign. The highway department office is located at 8045 County Road 12 NW in Walker, and the office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Or call 218-547-1211.

There is an online form available at http://cms4.revize.com/revize/casscounty/document_center/highway/E-911%20replacement%20form.pdf .

This emergency number sign, placed halfway back between the highway and the treeline, is just 3-5 inches of snow from being covered up. Most numbers placed closer to the road or in a driveway that was plowed (not blown) are covered by snow and unavailable for reference by emergency personnel.

Related Topics: PINEANDLAKES ECHO JOURNAL

By Travis G. Grimler

Travis Grimler began work at the Echo Journal Jan. 2 of 2013 while the publication was still split in two as the Pine River Journal and Lake Country Echo. He is a full time reporter/photographer/videographer for the paper and operates primarily out of the northern stretch of the coverage area (Hackensack to Jenkins).