What does a Level 3 mean? We asked Muskingum County Sheriff Matt Lutz to explain

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – With heavy snow expected to impact us over the weekend, Muskingum County Sheriff Matt Lutz, wants to clarify how snow emergency levels work.

The Buckeye State Sheriff’s Association created the level system to communicate road conditions to the community. Lutz ensures that his updates are shared on the sheriff office’s website, Facebook page, and on X.

“As soon as the roads get covered of any type, we got a level 1, let the public know that, hey, the weather has started. If you’re planning on going somewhere you might want to watch what’s going on. Or, if you’re out somewhere, the roads are getting covered,” Lutz said. “The one we go to next is a level 2. The definition of a level 2 is you should only really be out on the roads if it’s absolutely necessary.”

Level 3 is the highest emergency level and means all roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel. There are exceptions to this rule for people whose employers find them essential, like hospital employees who need to get to work.

“We do open that up, that there’s kind of a primary function of an employer and employee,” Lutz said. “So, if your employer deems it is necessary for you to come to work, then you’re more than able to go to work if you can make it there. We’re not going to give you a ticket for being an essential, necessary employee going to work. ”

You can check in with the Muskingum County Sheriff’s website, Facebook page, and on X to check on the road conditions declared. You can also stay tuned to WHIZ’s website, tv channels, and radio stations for your latest updates.