The  Red Cross has in-depth information about winter storm safety.   The following are some of the topics covered and is valuable knowledge everyone should be aware of.

For these topics and more go to:   Winter Storm

 

Prepare a Winter Storm Plan

Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit Containing--

Stay Tuned for Storm Warnings. . .

Know What Winter Storm WATCHES and WARNINGS Mean

When a Winter Storm WATCH is Issued...

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 rated, 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 traveling by car in a storm, but if you must...
• Carry a Disaster Supplies Kit 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 your 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 in 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 the blowing wind slightly open to let in air.

What to Do After a Winter Storm

Your Local Red Cross Chapter Can Provide Additional Materials in English and Spanish:

Materials for Children:

• "Be Ready 1-2-3" involve puppets who give important safety information to children ages 3-8 about residential fire safety, winter storms, and earthquakes.
• "Disaster Preparedness Coloring Book" (PDF File) (ARC 2200, English, or Spanish) for use by children 3-10.
• "Adventures of the Disaster Dudes" (ARC 5024) video and Presenter's Guide for use by an adult with children in grades 4-6.