SEVERE WINTER STORM

What preparation can I make for a severe winter storm?

Heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region. Even areas which normally experience mild winters can be hit with a major snow storm or extreme cold. The results can range from isolation due to blocked roads and downed power lines, to the havoc of cars and trucks sliding on icy highways.

You can protect yourself and your family from many hazards of winter by planning ahead.

Top

What do I do before the winter season?

1. Know the terms used by weather forecasters:
   • Freezing Rain - Rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on the roads and walkways.
   • Sleet - Rain that turns into ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes roads to freeze and become slippery.
   • Winter Weather Advisory - Cold, ice and snow are expected.
   • Winter Storm Watch - Severe winter weather such as heavy snow or ice is possible within the next day or two.
   • Winter Storm Warning - Severe winter conditions have begun or are about to begin.
   • Blizzard Warning - Heavy snow and strong winds will produce a blinding snow, near zero visibility, deep drifts and life-threatening wind chill.
   • Frost/Freeze Warning - Below freezing temperatures are expected.
2. Gather emergency supplies:
   • A battery-powered weather radio and spare batteries.
   • Food that doesn't require cooking.
   • Extra water in clean soda bottles.
   • Rock salt to melt ice or walkways, and sand to improve traction.
   • Flashlights and battery-powered lamps and extra batteries in case of a power outage. Candles are a fire hazard.
3. Prepare for possible isolation in your home:
   • Make sure you have sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off.
   • Have emergency heating equipment and fuel (a gas fireplace or wood burning stove or fireplace) so you can keep at least one room of your house warm enough to be livable. If your furnace is controlled by a thermostat and your electricity is cut off by a storm, you will need emergency heat.
   • If you have a fireplace, store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood.
   • Keep fire extinguishers on hand and make sure your family knows how to use them.
4. Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply.
   • Insulate walls and attics.
   • Caulk and weatherstrip doors and windows.
   • Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic.

Top

What to do during a winter storm

1. Listen to the radio or television for weather reports and emergency information.
2. Dress for the season:
   • Wear several layers of loose-fitting, light-weight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellant.
   • Mittens are warmer than gloves.
   • Wear a hat; most body heat is lost through the top of the head.
   • Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs from the cold air.
3. Be careful when shoveling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack - a major cause of death in the winter. If you must shovel snow, do some stretching exercises before going out.
4. Watch for signs of frostbite - a loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes or tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately.
5. Watch for signs of hypothermia - uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent exhaustion. If symptoms of hypothermia are detected, get medical help immediately.
6. When at home, conserve fuel if necessary by keeping your house cooler than normal. Temporarily "close off" heat to some rooms

(Information provided by FEMA)