Preparing for
Winter Storms
A major winter
storm can be lethal. Preparing for cold weather conditions and responding
to them effectively can reduce the dangers caused by winter storms.
BEFORE
Be familiar
with winter storm warning messages.
Service snow
removal equipment and have rock salt on hand to melt ice on walkways
and kitty litter to generate temporary traction.
Make sure you
have sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off.
Winterize your
home.
- Insulate
walls and attic.
- Caulk and
weather-strip doors and windows.
- Install storm
windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside.
Have safe emergency
heating equipment available.
- Fireplace
with ample supply of wood
- Small, well-vented,
wood, coal, or camp stove with fuel
- Portable
space heaters or kerosene heaters (See Kerosene Heaters.)
Install and
check smoke detectors.
Contact your
local emergency management office or American Red Cross chapter
for more information on winter storms.
Keep pipes from
freezing.
- Wrap pipes
in insulation or layers of old newspapers.
- Cover the
newspapers with plastic to keep out moisture.
- Let faucets
drip a little to avoid freezing.
- Know how
to shut off water valves.
Have disaster
supplies on hand, in case the power goes out.
- Flashlight
and extra batteries
- Portable,
battery-operated radio and extra batteries.
- First aid
kit
- One-week
supply of food (include items that do not require refrigeration
or cooking in case the power is shut off)
- Nonelectric
can opener
- One-week
supply of essential prescription medications.
- Extra blankets
and sleeping bags
- Fire extinguisher
(A-B-C type)
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