Winter Weather Preparedness

Winter weather can increase the risk of car accidents, carbon monoxide poisoning, hypothermia and frostbite. Winter storms can also lead to power outages and dangerous driving conditions. Stay safe with the following preparedness and safety tips.

Stay Informed

Follow National Weather Service for the latest weather related updates and information. If there is an ice, snow or wind event drive with caution and stay off the roads whenever possible if possible.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

Water expands when it freezes but pipes don't - a frozen pipe is in danger of bursting and needs to be thawed. Follow these tips today.

Road Closures

If you come across road closures or barricades never drive, bike or walk around them and use alternative routes. They are there for your safety.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

In the event of power outages, have your disaster kits ready and avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by running generators outdoors, away from your home. Never run a generator in your garage and do not attempt to heat your home with gas ovens, stoves, or grills.

Heating Safety

Keep burnable objects at least three feet away from heat sources. Purchase portable heaters that have an automatic shut-off when they fall over, and unplug heating devices like portable heaters whenever you leave the room.

Emergency Kits

Have your emergency kit ready with two weeks worth of food, water and supplies for everyone in your household. Pack extra blankets and warm clothing to prepare for power outages. Pack emergency items in your vehicle as well such as chains, jumper cables, a cellphone charger, reflective triangle, flares and kitty litter.

Hypothermia, Know the Signs

Warnings signs of hypothermia include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, slurred speech, drowsiness, and apparent exhaustion. If a person’s temperature is below 95°F (35°C), seek medical care immediately. If medical care is not available, begin warming the person slowly. Get the person into dry clothing and wrap them in a warm blanket covering the head and neck. Do not give the person hot beverages or food; warm broth is better. Do not warm extremities (arms and legs) first. This drives the cold blood toward the heart and can lead to heart failure.