A late-night effort to get ahead of winter weather led to an unexpected 911 call in Wheelersburg.
Around 11 p.m., deputies were sent to the 2400 block of Dogwood Ridge Road after a resident reported a man unloading heavy machinery from a trailer and preparing to plow. The caller said the noise was disruptive and asked that an officer tell the man to “come back at a decent time.”
Dispatch advised the caller that Scioto County does not have a noise ordinance requiring the work to stop, but deputies agreed to check things out.
When deputies made contact, they learned the crew was getting ready to plow the ridge and explained they couldn’t wait until morning due to tight schedules and incoming weather.
In other words: this wasn’t joyriding with heavy equipment — it was storm prep.
No violations were found, and the plowing operation continued.
A Little Perspective During Severe Weather
Law enforcement says calls like this tend to spike during winter storms, when crews are working odd hours to keep roads passable.
Deputies offered a gentle reminder:
When snow and ice are in the forecast, road crews often have to work late at night or early in the morning to stay ahead of dangerous conditions. That noise you’re hearing may be the reason ambulances, school buses, and commuters can safely get where they’re going the next day.
Tips for Storm Nights
If you hear heavy equipment during bad weather:
- ❄️ Remember they’re likely preventing worse conditions later
- ❄️ Allow extra patience — crews are on tight timelines
- ❄️ Save 911 for true emergencies
- ❄️ Consider earplugs or white noise if nighttime work is unavoidable
It may not be peaceful, but in winter, a loud plow is usually better than an icy road.