Make sure that you protect your family and home during any major winter storms with these important safety tips through every stage of the storm:
When a winter storm is forecasted:
Listen to the weather forecast often
- A winter weather “watch” is issued when severe wind chill, a blizzard or storm is forecasted within 24 to 72 hours.* If you live in the watch area, prepare for whatever is forecasted and stay on top of any weather developments
- A winter weather “warning” means hazardous weather is forecast within 24 hours* that may threaten people and property. During a warning, stay home if possible, and if you must leave, exercise extreme caution
Prepare your home for the coming storm
- Use storm windows to protect and insulate your home
- Clear gutters of leaves and debris to prevent flooding or ice dams
- Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and working
- Check heating fuel levels
- Make sure heating equipment and chimneys have had their annual inspection
Get any vehicles ready
- Make sure gas tanks are full
- Check antifreeze levels
- Move your vehicle
- Make sure you have a car emergency kit, including flashlight, water, snacks, extra hat, socks, gloves, first aid kit, rock salt, flares, shovel and tire chains
Stock up on required supplies
- Several day supply of water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food
- Any medications
- Flashlight
- Batteries
- NOAA weather radio
- Fire extinguisher
- Rock salt
- Snow shovel or snow removal equipment
During the winter storm
Do not leave your house
- Watch or listen for any important weather changes
- Travel only if absolutely necessary
Help prevent plumbing issues
- Prevent pipes from freezing by leaving faucets slightly open and keep sink doors open to circulate warm air
- If pipes burst, know where the water shut-off valve is and how to turn it off
Be prepared for any power outages
- Have a backup generator? NEVER use it inside your home, garage, basement, crawl spaces or other enclosed or partially enclosed areas, even if ventilated
- Never leave lit candles unattended
Mind your pets - Bring your pets indoors or to a warm sheltered area
- Make sure they have easy access to food and water
Winter storm aftermath
Be extremely careful
- Icy surfaces outdoors can be a problem whether walking or driving
- If shoveling snow or ice, warm up first, take breaks and don’t overexert or push yourself beyond what you can handle
- Stop physical activity immediately if you experience dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating or shortness of breath
- Protect yourself from hypothermia and frost bite by dressing in warm layers and keeping exposed skin areas covered
*Source: National Weather Service