The trees have lost most of their leaves, the days are getting colder and that means winter ... and the possibility of snow ... are just around the corner, according to Oyster Bay Town Councilman Joe Muscarella, who advises residents that the town has an informative brochure to assist them with preparing for a snowstorm.

"The town is prepared to quickly clear roadways and help handle emergency situations," Muscarella said. "Residents, however, should also have available a course of action prepared in the event of a snowstorm.

"The town has prepared this brochure to explain snow removal procedures, offer some very important safety tips and list things residents can do to help in the overall process. We hope that 'Old Man Winter' gives us mild weather. But, just in case he doesn't, we need everyone to be prepared."

"The town's battle plan for snow control is a comprehensive one," Muscarella stated. "One of the keys to its success is town residents who can help by keeping their vehicles off the street and out of the way of snow-clearing equipment. If off-street parking is not available, town law stipulates that residents must park on the side of the street with even numbered houses during even-numbered years (2000) and on the side of the street with odd-numbered houses during odd-numbered years (2001)."

Muscarella noted that any resident or organization interested in obtaining a free brochure can pick one up at the Town Halls North (Oyster Bay) and South (Massapequa), the Department of Public Works (Syosset) and at major park facilities, or call or write the Town of Oyster Bay Public Information Office, 54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, NY 11771 (624-6380).