Winter Storms and Extreme Cold

Winter storms increase risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, & heart attacks from overexertion.

Cold Weather Safety Experts at FEMA, Dept of Homeland Security have offered the following winter weather safety tips:

Blizzards and winter storms may bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high winds.

A winter storm can:

• Last a few hours or several days
• Knock out heat, power, and communication services
• Place older adults, young children, and sick individuals at greater risk

IF YOU ARE UNDER A WINTER STORM WARNING, FIND SHELTER RIGHT AWAY

• Stay off roads.
• Remain indoors and dress warmly.
• Prepare for power outages.
• Use generators outside only and away from windows.
• Listen for emergency information and alerts.
• Look for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.
• Check on neighbors.

No matter where you live, it is always a good idea to keep a Winter Storm Safety Kit in every vehicle! Always be prepared with supplies in home and car….BEFORE you need them!

For more Cold Weather Safety Tips from US Government Safety Experts, visit their official Disaster Preparedness website at Ready.gov.