With winter approaching, Whitehall Township Mayor Edward D. Hozza Jr. is sending out a message to residents.

"Winter prep ... the time to prepare is now, not the night before the storm," Hozza said at the Oct. 13 commissioners meeting.

He also said residents must prune trees that hang into streets, alleys and sidewalks. They must be 14 feet above the street and seven feet above the sidewalk.

"If plows cannot get under street trees your side of the street will not be plowed," Hozza said.

Hozza informed residents they should make certain to update emergency preparedness supplies. Items such as prescriptions, food, water, toiletries and propane to cook outside in the event of an extended power failure are essential. Other items on the list of necessary items include fuel for the generator, insurance documents and a reliable winter shovel or two.

The township public works department is readying its fleet for the first snowfall.