Be Prepared for Winter Weather

Written By Brandi Gilley

The following information has been compiled from various sources including The National Weather Weather Service and Ready.gov

PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR WINTER WEATHER

  • Keep enough non-perishable food, water and medications for at least 3 days

  • Ensure you have warm clothing and blankets

  • Make sure you have an updated first aid kit

  • Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

  • Replenish fuel for your car and heating sources

  • Charge your phone in advance and check for Wireless Emergency Alerts

  • Properly ventilate emergency heat sources

  • Take it easy when shoveling

TRAVELING DURING A WINTER STORM

Winter Emergency Kit Items For Your Car

  • Blankets

  • Flashlights and Batteries

  • First-aid Kit

  • Flares/roadside visibility

  • Ice scraper/snow brush

  • De-icer

  • Jumper Cables

  • Water

  • Non-perishable snacks such as an energy bar

Car Weatherization Tips

  • Checking windshield washer fluid and windshield wipers

  • Checking tire Pressure

  • Testing your battery

Stranded in a Snow Storm

  • Stay in Your Vehicle

  • Practice Carbon Monoxide Safety 

    • Keep your vehicle and tailpipe clear of snow while the engine runs

    • Run the engine only 10 minutes every hour to stay warm

    • Open a window slightly for ventilation

  • Conserve Batteries

    • Only use your phone when necessary

    • Turn off car lights and radio when engine is off

  • Signal for Help

    • Hang a bright colored cloth from the antenna or window

    • Turn on hazard and interior lights occasionally

    • Raise the hood when snow stops falling

    • Place flares or reflective markers near the car if safe

 POWER OUTAGES

  • Be careful with heat sources

    • Candles and space heaters are a fire risk

    • Also stay warm by bundling up and keep doors closed, placing towels in cracks

  • Practice portable generator safety

    • Use generators outdoors, at least 20 feet away from doors/windows/garages to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Follow instructions for proper use.

  • Check on neighbors

    • Once your family is safe, check on your neighbors and the vulnerable to make sure they are ok.

Additional Information: Ready.gov - Be Prepared for a Power Outage

STAYING WARM DURING A POWER OUTAGE

  • Close blinds or curtains to keep in some heat.

  • Close off rooms to avoid wasting heat.

  • Wear layers of loos-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing.

  • Eat and drink. Food provides energy to warm the body. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.

  • Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors.

GENERATOR SAFETY

Generators can be helpful when the power goes out. It is important to know how use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and other hazards.

  • Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages.

  • Install working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can kill you, your family and pets.

  • Keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding. Touching a wet generator or devices connected to one can cause electrical shock.

  • Always connect the generator to appliances with heavy-duty extension cords.

  • Let the generator cool before refueling. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite.

  • Follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

 DON’T FORGET YOUR PETS

  • Even with a natural fur coat, winter can be deadly for your pets unless proper care is given.

  • Keep them warm and dry, and indoors whenever possible.

  • Provide plenty of food and water. Dehydration is especially dangerous in winter.

  • When outside, keep them bundled up. Limit outside time, and thoroughly clean (including paws) when bringing them in.

Brandi Gilley