HOW TO PREPARE FOR A WINTER STORM

Now/Prepare
Sign up for local alerts and warnings – Create and test emergency communication plan(s). – Stock emergency supplies, and install battery-powered or battery backed-up carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors. – Winterize your home – Review your property insurance, and safeguard critical documents – Get trained on specific needs your family may have. Also, consider joining your local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) – Identify a place nearby where you can safely warm up should you lose heat in your home.

During/Survive
Stay indoors and off the roads – If you must drive, keep emergency supplies in your car – Close off rooms to consolidate and retain heat – Dress in layers, and use blankets to stay warm – Bring pets into a warm place and out of the storm or severe cold – Never use a generator, camp stove, charcoal grill, or gasoline or propane heater indoors, as these items can start accidental fires, cause electric shock, and/or cause deadly carbon monoxide poisoning – Never heat a home with a cooktop or oven – Limit your time outdoors, and stay dry.

After/Be Safe
Only drive if necessary – Remove snow and ice from your tailpipe before starting your car, and check regularly if idling – Clean
all snow and ice from your car before driving – Dress in warm clothing, stay dry, prevent prolonged exposure to cold and wind, and avoid overexertion clearing/shoveling snow. Overexertion can lead to a medical emergency – Monitor local news and alerts for
emergency information and instructions

source: ready.gov/prepare