Be Prepared…Before the Storm Strikes!

Winter Weather Awareness

Winter Storm Watch

Normally, when a winter storm is expected, the National Weather Service will issue a “winter storm watch” 12 to 36 hours in advance. A “winter storm watch” means that conditions exist for the possible occurrence of severe winter weather, such as blizzard conditions, heavy snow, significant freezing rain, or heavy sleet.

A winter storm watch is your signal to prepare for the storm now. Once the storm begins, travel may be too dangerous or impossible.

Preparing at home (and at work)…

Remaining inside where you are protected from the elements is the safest place during a winter storm. The primary concerns you face indoors are the potential loss of heat, power, telephone service, and a shortage of supplies if the storm persists for more than a day. Here is a checklist you can use to make sure you are prepared:

  • Flashlight with extra batteries;
  • Battery-powered weather radio and portable radio;
  • Extra food and water, especially high energy food that requires no cooking or refrigeration, such as dried fruit and canned goods (don’t forget the non-electric can opener);
  • Medicine, first aid supplies, and ample baby supplies;
  • Emergency heating source, such as a stocked fireplace, wood stove, or space heater. (Be aware of the potential for fire in leaving a space heater unattended.)
  • Smoke detector and fire extinguisher. (The chance of fire increases dramatically when using alternative heating sources!)
  • Carbon monoxide detector. (The chance of carbon monoxide poisoning greatly increases with the use of alternative heating sources!)

Don’t forget, you may not be at home when the storm strikes! Make sure you have emergency supplies available at your place of work.

Preparing the car or truck…

About 70% of the deaths during an ice or snow storm occur in a vehicle! If you wonder whether you should attempt to travel, then don’t! If you must travel, then allow extra time, reduce your speed and do not attempt to make sudden turns or stops. Winterize the vehicle so it will be reliable. This includes a good set of tires and a reliable battery. Carry a fully-charged cell phone with you. Other items necessary for the car or truck include:

  • Dry blanket(s) or sleeping bag;
  • Extra dry clothing;
  • Flashlight with extra batteries;
  • High calorie non-perishable food (i.e. granola bars and power bars);
  • Snow shovel, windshield scraper, and brush;
  • Sack of sand, rock salt, or kitty litter for traction;
  • Booster cables;
  • First aid kit and a small container for water;
  • Maps, compass, knife, and matches in a water-proof container.

Keep on top of the latest weather forecast. Being prepared before the storm hits will keep you and your family from unnecessary risk!

Winter Storm Warning

Normally, when a winter storm is imminent, the National Weather Service will issue a “winter storm warning” or “blizzard warning” 6 to 24 hours before the storm strikes. A “winter storm warning” means that severe winter weather, such as heavy snow, significant freezing rain, or heavy sleet, is expected. A “blizzard warning” means that sustained or gusty winds of 35 mph or more are expected to reduce visibility at or below a quarter of a mile for at least three hours due to falling and/or blowing snow. The issuance of the winter storm warning is your signal to take steps necessary to keep you, your family, and pets or animals safe during the storm:

  • Close off unneeded rooms and stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors.
  • Cover windows at night.
  • Be careful in your use of alternative heat sources.
  • Eat and drink regularly to keep your body temperature up and prevent dehydration.
  • Exercise occasionally by vigorously moving arms, legs, fingers, and toes to keep your blood circulating.
  • Provide for pets by making sure they have shelter and plenty of food and fresh water available.

All unnecessary travel should be delayed until the storm is over. Seventy percent of all deaths during snow and ice storms occur in vehicles and most of these deaths occur when people leave their vehicles! If you get stranded in your vehicle and shelter is not visible immediately nearby, THEN STAY WITH YOUR VEHICLE…

  • Run the motor for about ten minutes each hour for heat. Keep the tailpipe free from snow and open the window slightly from time to time to let in fresh air. (Remember carbon monoxide!)
  • Make yourself visible by turning on the dome light while the engine is running and tie a colored (red) cloth to your antenna or door.
  • Exercise occasionally by vigorously moving arms, legs, fingers, and toes to keep your blood circulating.
  • Eat and drink regularly to keep your body temperature up and prevent dehydration.

Outdoor Exposure

Most deaths and injuries during winter storms can be prevented! Overexertion in the cold kills many people. The heart and blood vessels constrict in cold conditions to preserve body heat. Too much exertion can cause a heart attack.

When shoveling snow or doing other activities in the cold you should always set a slow pace. Take frequent breaks and warm yourself regularly.

When spending time outdoors in the cold, wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight warm clothing. Also don’t forget to wear hats/caps, gloves/mittens, and appropriate footwear. Remove layers of clothing, as needed, to avoid perspiration and subsequent chill.

Sweating can lead to hypothermia (low body temperature). The signs of hypothermia include uncontrollable shivering, disorientation, slurred speech, and drowsiness or exhaustion. If the body temperature has dropped below 95 degrees, seek immediate medical help.

Frostbite can also occur from exposure to the cold. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and usually occurs in extremities, such as toes or fingers first.

When treating hypothermia or frostbite, always make sure the affected area is dry and then warm it slowly using blankets! A person suffering from hypothermia must have their chest, neck, and head warmed first.