Winter Storm Draco left many people in Jasper County without power, and many citizens called emergency services for help. The problem with calling emergency services for non-emergency situations is that it can tie up resources that are needed elsewhere, and most problems can be avoided with proper planning.

“The only thing between people and panic is a plan,” Jasper County Emergency Management Coordinator Jim Sparks said.

Emergency services are usually stretched thin during a snow storm, and it can take time to reach those in need. Jasper County had citizens without power, and others were stranded on the road.