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Winter
Storm
Prepare
a Winter Storm Family Disaster Plan.
Have
extra blankets on hand. Ensure that every member of your household has
a warm coat, gloves or mittens, hat and water- resistant boots.
Assemble
a Disaster Supplies Kit.
Have
your car winterized before winter storm season.
Stay
tuned to your local radio and TV stations for storm warnings.
Know
what winter storm WATCHES and WARNINGS mean:
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A
WATCH means a storm is possible in your area. |
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A
WARNING means a storm is headed for your area. |
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A
Blizzard WARNING means strong winds, blinding wind-driven snow and dangerous
wind chill are expected. Seek shelter immediately! |
When
a WATCH is issued: listen for updates and avoid unnecessary travel.
When
a 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 and a hat will prevent loss of body heat.
Cover your mouth to protect your lungs. Understand the hazards of wind
chill. 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 and avoid overexertion.
Avoid
traveling by car in a storm. If you must, carry a Disaster
Supplies Kit, keep your car's gas tank full and let someone know your
destination, route and expected arrival time.
If you get stuck...
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Stay with
your car. Do not try to walk to safety.
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Tie a
brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to
see.
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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.
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Leave
the overhead light on when the engine is running so that you can be seen.
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As you
sit, move your arms and legs to keep blood circulating and to stay warm.
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Keep one
window away from the blowing wind slightly open to let in air.
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