Winter storms bring ice, snow, cold temperatures, and often dangerous driving conditions. Even small amounts of snow and ice can cause severe problems for southern states where winter storms are infrequent.

Here's what you can do to prepare for such an emergency.

Prepare a winter storm plan:

• Have extra blankets on hand.
• Ensure that each member of your household has a warm coat, gloves or mittens, hat, and water-resistant boots.
• Assemble a disaster supplies kit containing--
  • First aid kit and essential medications.
  • Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and portable radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.
  • Canned food and nonelectric can opener.
  • Bottled water.
• Have your car winterized before winter storm season.
• Assemble a disaster supplies kit for your car.

Stay tuned for storm warnings:

• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio and your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information.
• Know what winter storm WATCHES and WARNINGS mean--
  • A winter storm WATCH means a winter storm is possible in your area.
  • A winter storm WARNING means a winter storm is headed for your area.
  • A blizzard WARNING means strong winds, blinding wind-driven snow, and dangerous win chill are expected. Seek shelter immediately!

When a winter storm WATCH is issued...

• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, local radio and TV stations, or cable TV such as The Weather Channel for further updates.
• Be alert to changing weather conditions.
• Avoid unnecessary travel.

When a winter storm WARNING is issued...

• Stay indoors during the storm.
• If you must go outside, several layers of lightweight clothing will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Gloves (or mittens) and a hat will prevent loss of body heat. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs.
• Understand the hazards of wind chill, which combines the cooling effect of wind and cold temperatures on exposed skin. As the wind increases, heat is carried away from a person's body at an accelerated rate, driving down the body temperature.
• Walk carefully on snowy, icy sidewalks.
• After the storm, if you shovel snow, be extremely careful. It is physically strenuous work, so take frequent breaks. Avoid overexertion.

Avoid travelling by car in a storm, but if you must...

• Have emergency supplies in the trunk.
• Keep your car's gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.
• Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive. If you car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.

If you do get stuck...

• Stay with your car. Do not try to walk to safety.
• Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.
• Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won't back up into the car.
• Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running so that you can be seen.
• As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to keep blood circulating and to stay warm.
• Keep one window away from blowing wind slightly open to let in air.

 

---

For further information on winter storms, ask for Winter Storms...the Deceptive Killer from your local American Red Cross chapter, National Weather Service office, or emergency management office.

Brochure produced in cooperation with the American Red Cross, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.