Heavy snow continues to fall across Carroll County and much of Maryland, with at least 24 inches of snow expected on the ground by the time the storm moves out overnight and early Sunday morning.

Sykesville fire crews have been busy during the period answering several medical calls and investigating an odor of natural gas in a residence.

When not answering calls, department personnel have been busy plowing and shoveling the station's aprons and parking lot in an effort to stay ahead of the storm. County roads personnel have assisted the department with some of the snow removal, and plowing ahead of emergency vehicles.

In addition to the county roads personnel using Station 12 as a base of operations, a Humvee from the Maryland National Guard has been stationed at the department and has been responding as a support unit on our calls.

Sykesville fire officials join state officials in reminding residents to stay off the roads. As tempting as it may be to try, the road conditions are still extremely hazardous, and even emergency responders are having difficulty in certain areas.

As you begin to clear the snow from your walks and driveway, if you have a fire hydrant on your property, please try to dig it out for us. The minutes you take to help us out could make a world of difference if there's a fire in your neighborhood.

We will continue to provide updates throughout the day. Thanks, and be safe.