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❄️ Winter Weather Preparedness & Safety

 

Winter weather can strike unexpectedly, and almost all Americans, regardless of where they live, are at risk. Whether it’s snow, subfreezing temperatures, strong winds, ice, or heavy rain, it’s crucial to be prepared. Winter storms can lead to power outages, disruptions in heat and communication, and increase the risk of accidents and hypothermia. The National Weather Service refers to winter storms as “Deceptive Killers” due to the indirect causes of death like traffic accidents and prolonged exposure to cold.

Follow these essential steps to prepare yourself, your family, and your home for winter weather.

   

    

Step 1: Build an Emergency Supply Kit

Prepare an emergency supply kit to ensure you can manage during a winter storm. Your kit should include:

  • Non-perishable food (3-day supply for each person)
  • Water (1 gallon per person per day)
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
  • Extra flashlights and batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Essential medications (prescriptions and over-the-counter)
  • Extra blankets or sleeping bags

 

Additional Items for Winter Weather:

  • Rock salt or environmentally safe ice-melting products
  • Sand for traction
  • Snow shovels and snow removal equipment
  • Warm clothing and blankets

    

    

Step 2: Make a Family Emergency Plan

Create a family emergency plan to ensure everyone knows what to do if disaster strikes:

  • Communication: Have an out-of-town contact person who can help relay messages if family members get separated.
  • Meeting Places: Plan meeting spots within and outside your neighborhood.
  • School & Workplace Plans: Check if your children’s school and your workplace have emergency plans. If not, consider helping to create one.
  • Emergency Response Training: Consider taking a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) class to stay informed and ready.

    

    

Step 3: Prepare Your Home for Winter

Protect your home and keep it safe and warm during winter storms:

  • Insulate your home: Add weather stripping around windows and doors to keep warm air inside.
  • Pipe Protection: Insulate pipes to prevent freezing, and let faucets drip during extremely cold weather.
  • Know how to turn off utilities: Learn how to shut off water, gas, and electricity in case of a burst pipe or electrical issue.
  • Check for Fire Hazards: Keep fire extinguishers accessible and ensure everyone in your home knows how to use them.
  • Roof Safety: If you live in an area prone to heavy snow, hire a professional to ensure your roof is strong enough to support the weight of snow accumulation.

 

  • Vehicle Preparation: Ensure your car is ready for winter with these checks:
    • Antifreeze levels
    • Battery and ignition system
    • Brakes and exhaust system
    • Tires (consider snow tires if required)
    • Windshield wipers and fluid
    • Defroster and heater

    

    

Step 4: Stay Informed

Know the Winter Weather Terms to stay alert:

  • Freezing Rain: Ice forms on roads and walkways.
  • Sleet: Ice pellets that freeze roads and cause slippery conditions.
  • Winter Weather Advisory: Cold, ice, and snow are expected.
  • Winter Storm Watch: Severe weather like heavy snow or ice may occur in the next 1-2 days.
  • Winter Storm Warning: Severe winter weather is imminent or already occurring.
  • Blizzard Warning: Expect heavy snow, strong winds, and life-threatening wind chills.
  • Frost/Freeze Warning: Below freezing temperatures are expected.

    

     

What to Do When a Winter Storm WATCH is Issued

  • Stay informed: Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local TV/radio stations.
  • Avoid unnecessary travel: Stay indoors if possible, and avoid driving in hazardous conditions.

     

     

What to Do When a Winter Storm WARNING is Issued

  • Stay indoors: If you must go outside, dress in layers, wear gloves, a hat, and a scarf to protect your body heat.
  • Walk cautiously: Snow and ice may cause slip hazards on walkways.
  • Prevent Frozen Pipes: If pipes freeze, remove insulation, open faucets, and pour hot water on the pipes (starting from where cold air penetrated).
  • Use heating devices safely: If using kerosene heaters, ensure proper ventilation and keep them at least three feet away from flammable objects.
  • Avoid travel: If you must travel, carry an Emergency Supply Kit in your car, and keep your gas tank full.

      

     

Step 5: Listen to Local Officials

  • Follow local authorities: Pay attention to the instructions from your state and local emergency management agencies.
  • Listen for updates: Local officials will provide critical information about evacuation, road conditions, and emergency shelter availability.

     

       

Additional Winter Weather Tips

  • Conserve heat: Keep your house cooler than normal and close off unused rooms.
  • Dress warmly: Wear several layers of clothing and warm socks, gloves, and hats.
  • Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning: If using an alternate heating source like a fireplace or space heater, ensure proper ventilation.

 

For more information on winter storm preparedness and what to do during and after a storm, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), NOAA, or the American Red Cross.

     

        

Conclusion

Winter weather can be unpredictable, but being prepared is your best defense. Follow these steps to keep yourself, your family, and your home safe. Winter storms can bring dangerous conditions, but with the right precautions, you can reduce the risks and stay safe.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember: Plan Ahead for Winter Weather!