Are You Prepared? Follow These Important Guidelines For Winter Storm Survival

Be sure to have extra blankets on hand.Stay tuned to the weather station for updates on
All family members should have gloves, warmchanging weather.
coats, hats and water resistant boots.For your safety, stay indoors
Check your smoke detectors and fireTraveling by Car in a Storm Should be Avoided,
extinguishers to make sure they are workingBut if You Need To:
properly.Assemble a car emergency kit for your trunk.
Assemble a Family Emergency Kit for Your HomeMake sure you winterize your car before the
Containing the Following:winter storm season.
Portable radio (NOAA Weather Radio)For emergency use, keep your car's gas tank full.
Flashlight and batteriesMake sure that someone knows your destination,
Bottled water for everyone in the familyyour route and when you are to be expected to
Long-term storage foodyour destination.
First Aid KitsIn Case You Get Stuck in Your Car
What Does a Winter Storm Watch Mean?Unless there is a house or business nearby, stay
A Snow Storm or Ice Storm is possible in yourwith your car. It is not recommended to try and
area.walk to safety.
If a Winter Storm Watch is issued, stay tuned toPut a brightly colored cloth on your antenna as a
the weather station for updates on changingsignal for help.
weather.Start your car and use the heater for about 10
What Does a Winter Storm Warning Mean?minutes every hour.
A Snow Storm or Ice Storm is headed for yourMake sure that snow hasn't accumulated and
area.might be blocking your exhaust pipe.
Stay tuned to the weather station and take theWhen running your engine, leave the overhead
necessary precautions.light on so that you can be seen by rescuers.
Stay indoors.Exercise your arms and legs every few minutes
If you need to go outdoors, wear plenty ofto keep your blood circulating which will help to
layered clothing under your heavy coat.keep you warm.
Wear gloves and a hat.Open one window slightly to let air in, the window
To protect your lungs, cover your mouth.away from the blowing wind.
Be aware of wind chill, which could causeDrink fluids to avoid dehydration.
hypothermia.Be careful not to waste your car's battery power.
Be careful walking on snowy, icy sidewalks.If you are in a remote area, try to spell out
Be cautious if you need to shovel snow, takesletters of SOS with rocks or tree limbs to attract
breaks and don't over do it.attention.
What Does a Blizzard Warning Mean?If absolutely necessary, once the storm passes,
Strong winds, dangerous wind chill, blindingleave the car and proceed on foot.
wind-driven snow are expected.