Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit

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

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 wind 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 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 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

For more info see the Winter Storms PDF

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