Winter Storms: What to do

When temperature drops below 30 degrees Fahrenheit, frostbite can occur in as little as 25 minutes.

Winter storms can range from a few hours of moderate snowfall to a blizzard with blinding winds that lasts for several days. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes strong winds, ice buildup, sleet and freezing rain. Regardless of the severity of the winter storm, you should be prepared to stay safe during this time.

Before

• Make a plan and assemble an emergency kit.
• Your home should have carbon monoxide detectors.
• Winterize your car by checking the fluid level and filling up the gas tank. A full tank will keep the fuel lines from freezing. Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering the inside of your windows with plastic to keep cold air out. Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by professional cleaning and inspection every year.
• If you are leaving in cold weather, turn on the heating in your home and set the temperature to at least 55°F.
• Add sand, rock salt, or cat litter to your emergency kit. Use it to make walkways and stairs less slippery.
• Keep warm coats, gloves or mittens, hats, boots and extra blankets, and warm clothes within easy reach of all members of your family.

During

• Stay indoors and wear warm clothing.
• Layers of loose, light, warm clothing will keep you warmer than a bulky sweater.
  If you feel too warm, remove a layer of clothing to avoid sweating; if you are chilly, add a layer of clothing.
  Stay indoors if possible.
• Listen to weather radio or other local news channels for important information from the National Service about snowstorms and storms.
• Keep pets inside during winter weather.
• Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas and ensure that their access to food and water is not blocked by snow, ice or other obstructions.
• Run water in a thin stream to prevent pipes from freezing.
• All fuel burning equipment must be ventilated to the outside and not obstructed.
• Keep garage doors closed if there are water lines in the garage.
• Open cabinet doors in the kitchen and bathroom to allow warm air to circulate around the plumbing pipes.
• Be sure to keep any harmful cleaning products and household chemicals out of the reach of children and pets.
• Avoid driving when the weather conditions include sleet, freezing rain, snow, or thick fog.
• If travel is necessary, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle.
• Before undertaking heavy tasks in low temperatures, consider your physical fitness, current weather conditions, and the nature of the task ahead.
• Help people with disabilities and functional needs, such as infants and children, as well as the elderly, disabled and people without transportation.

After

• Tell friends and family that you are safe.
• Restock the emergency kit if used during the storm.
•  To minimize the risk of snow falling off the roof, take snow with a rake or a shovel.