For the first time in history, Franklin County is facing a Level 3 Snow Emergency. Sheriff Dallas Baldwin has made it very clear: the roads are currently dangerous and covered in thick white snow. Because the temperatures are so low, the chemicals used to melt ice are not working well. This has created a “lockdown” situation for drivers.
In simple words, a Level 3 alert means the roads are officially closed to the general public. But many people are asking: “Will the police arrest me if I drive to the store?” Here is everything you need to know about the legal side of this emergency.
The Legal Reality: Arrest vs. Permission
Many people think that if they even touch their car, they will go to jail. That is not exactly true. The Sheriff’s office explained that they are not going to stop and ticket every single car they see. Instead, the police will use their “discretion” (their own judgment).
If you are on the road because you have a genuine emergency—like a medical crisis or you are going to a critical job—the police will likely let you go. However, if you are just driving around to see the snow or go to a friend’s house, you are breaking the law. In that case, you could be arrested or given a heavy fine.
Who is Considered an ‘Essential’ Worker?
During a Level 3 emergency, only people with “must-do” jobs are allowed to travel. This includes:
- Medical Staff: Doctors, nurses, and hospital workers.
- Emergency Responders: Police, firemen, and ambulance drivers.
- Airport Staff: People who keep the planes and safety systems running.
- Infrastructure Workers: People fixing power lines or clearing the snow.
If you do not fall into these categories, the government expects you to stay inside. If you are unsure, it is better to call your boss before leaving home.
Why is the Government Being So Strict?
You might think, “I am a good driver, I can handle the snow.” But the problem isn’t just your driving skills. When regular cars get stuck in the snow, they block the Snow Warriors (the plow trucks).
If a snowplow is blocked by a small car, it cannot clear the road. If the road isn’t cleared, an ambulance cannot reach a person having a heart attack. By staying home, you are actually helping save lives by keeping the paths open for emergency vehicles.
When Will Life Get Back to Normal?
The Sheriff will only lift the Level 3 order when he gets the “all-clear” from the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT). They need to make sure the main highways and streets are safe for regular tires.
Right now, the snow is still falling and the wind is high. It is very likely that these restrictions will stay in place until at least Tuesday. The best thing to do is keep checking the news or the Sheriff’s social media pages for updates.
Our Opinion: Safety is More Important Than Convenience
It is very rare for Franklin County to take such a big step. This shows how dangerous the weather really is. While it is annoying to be stuck at home, it is much better than being stuck in a ditch in -10 degree weather. We believe the Sheriff’s “discretion” policy is fair—it punishes the people who are being careless but helps those who truly need to travel.
Conclusion
To answer the main question: Yes, it is technically illegal to drive for fun or non-essential reasons during a Level 3 emergency. You could face an arrest. The goal of this law is not to bother citizens, but to give the snowplows the space they need to make the city safe again. Stay home, stay warm, and let the professionals do their job.
FAQs
Can I be arrested just for being on the road?
Technically, yes. If you do not have a “legitimate and necessary” reason to be out, you are violating the Level 3 order. However, police usually look for a reason before making an arrest.
Does a Level 3 emergency apply to all roads?
Yes, in Franklin County, this order applies to all city streets, county roads, and highways within the county limits.
What if I have to go to work at a grocery store?
Usually, grocery store employees are not considered “emergency personnel” unless they are part of a critical supply chain. You should check with your employer to see if they have special permission.
How do I know when the emergency level changes?
You can monitor local news channels like 10TV or check the Franklin County Sheriff’s official website and social media. They post updates the moment the level is downgraded.
Is a Level 3 emergency the same as a Level 2?
No. Level 2 means “be very careful and drive only if necessary.” Level 3 is much stricter—it means “the roads are closed to the public.”