HOME PAGE
FEBRUARY 2010
WINTER STORM SAFETY
Winter storms can range from moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by storng winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.
KNOW THE DIFFERENCE
- Winter Storm Outlook - winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.
- Winter Weather Advisory - winter weather conditions are expected tocause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening.
- Winter Storm Watch - winter storm conditions are possible in the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions.
- Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will be within 24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately.
COLD-RELATED EMERGENCIES - Frostbite and Hypothermia are two dangerous and
potentially life-threatening emergencies.
Learn how to care for these emergencies by taking a first aid class.
What Should I Do?
- Dress in several layers lightweight clothing, wear gloves and a hat (preferably covering your ears).
- Wear waterproof, insulated boots to keep feet warm and dry and to maintain your footing in ice and snow.
- Minimize travel. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supplies kit in your car.
- Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).
- Winterize your car and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
- Insulate your home by installing storm windows covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep the cold air out.
- Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
- Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen water.
- Running water even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.
- All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside and kept clear.
What Should I Do?
- Dress in several layers lightweight clothing, wear gloves and a hat (preferably covering your ears).
- Wear waterproof, insulated boots to keep feet warm and dry and to maintain your footing in ice and snow.
- Minimize travel. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supplies kit in your car.
- Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).
- Winterize your car and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
- Insulate your home by installing storm windows covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep the cold air out.
- Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
- Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen water.
- Running water even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.
- All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside and kept clear.
What Do I Do After A Storm?
- Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power or heat during periods of extreme cold.
- Avoid driving when conditions include sleet, freezing rain or drizzle, snow or dense fog.
- Before tackling strenuous tasks in cold temperatures, consider your physical condition, the weather factors and the nature of the task.
- Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm , loose-fitting , lightweight clothing in several layers. Stay indoors, if possible.
- Help who require special assistance such as elderly people living alone, people with disabilities and children.
- Check on your animals and make sure that their access to food and water is not blocked by snow drifts, ice or other obstacles. If possible, bring them indoors.
CAUTION: CARBON MONOXIDE KILLS
- Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. Locate unit away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
- The primary hazards to avoid when using alternate sources for electricity, heating or cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire.
- Install carbon monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.
- If the carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door.
- Call for help from the fresh air location and remain there until emergency personnel arrive to assist you.
