Winter Storm Prep & Safety Tips

Please stay off the roads during the height of winter storms.

 If you cannot avoid travel, make sure that your cellphone is fully charged and you have an emergency kit for your vehicle. Include blankets, a small shovel, kitty litter or sand for traction, extra clothing, flashlight, snacks, and water in case you are stranded. Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.

 Citizens remaining at home during a winter storm should take the following steps to prepare and be safe:

 Stay informed and keep devices charged so you will have a way to follow weather forecasts and local emergency information and contact family and friends.

 Prepare emergency supplies. Keep essential items like food, water, and first aid kits at home and at work. 

 Use heating devices according to instructions and install a carbon monoxide alarm if you rely on alternative heat sources.

 Place generators at least 20 feet away from doors and windows and shield them from rain or flooding to prevent electrical shock.

 If you must go outside, wear warm layers and limit your time outdoors.

 Particularly when outdoors for extended time, check for frostbite symptoms (numbness, pale skin) and hypothermia (shivering, confusion, or drowsiness).

 Cold weather can constrict blood vessels, which means your body will need to work harder to shovel snow and walk in deep snow. This can put a strain on your heart and increase the risk of a heart attack. Pace yourself and take breaks as needed.

 Remove snow and ice three feet around fire hydrants and clear a path from the hydrant to the street if it is safe to do so.

 Keep a car emergency kit. Include a cell phone charger, blankets, warm clothes, a snow shovel, a flashlight with batteries, jumper cables, water and non-perishable snacks. If possible, keep a full gas tank. 

 Maintain your car. Routine vehicle maintenance is especially important in winter to prevent breakdowns in severe weather. If possible, switch to snow tires or carry snow chains.