FRANKLIN CO., Va. – Scruggs Volunteer Fire and Rescue Chief Dempsey Moore says he’s seen a lot in 28 years with the department, but nothing quite like this.
“We’ve been running since about 6:45 yesterday morning on about two hours of sleep,” he said.
Calls of downed trees and power lines just kept coming. His crews also went out on well-being checks to make sure folks were okay.
“We’ve been finding people that are cold. Usually, we can get hold of somebody that they know, and have them come and get them,” Moore said.
Appalachian Power says the Rocky Mount and Moneta areas were especially hard hit, and it could be Thursday before power is fully restored.
“We have assessors and crews who are looking at the conditions, looking at the job that’s required to be done to safely and efficiently restore power,” said Ashley Workman, a spokesperson for Appalachian Power.
In the meantime, Moore decided to open up the department’s headquarters as a warming station and shelter.
“Our biggest concern is making sure neighbors stay warm,” Moore added.
The chief felt it was important to open this space to the community, not only providing snacks and things to eat and even warm food but also a place to sleep if people need it.
Karen Burroughs stopped to charge her phone and battery pack but is still planning to ride things out at home.
10 News asked Burroughs how she has been keeping warm.
“My late husband built our house, and the insulation is unbelievable. My house is 46 degrees, which is pretty good when the temperature is at 24 at night. 46 is pretty good,” Burroughs replied.
So far, Moore says there have been no injuries in his service area and hopes to keep it that way.
“It’s going to be colder, so don’t really sit at home and wait until it’s so cold, you know. You can get in trouble, and you can start to get hypothermia and stuff, you don’t even realize it,” Moore warned.
Volunteers will be on the job inside and outside the station until the weather thaws.
To find more information on warming centers in the area, visit this link.