Getting prepared... Know the terms used by weather forecasters. Consider purchasing a battery-powered NOAA weather radio and stock extra batteries. Keep rock salt to melt ice on walkways and sand to improve traction. Make sure you have sufficient heating fuel. Make sure you have an alternate heat source and supply of fuel. Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic. Insulate walls and attics. Caulk and weatherstrip doors and windows. Keep your car "winterized" with anti-freeze. Use snow tires. During a winter storm... Listen to the radio or television for weather reports and emergency information. Wear several layers of loosefitting, light weight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. Wear mittens instead of gloves. Wear a hat -- most body heat is lost through the top of the head. Avoid overexertion. Watch for signs of frostbite. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately. Watch for signs of hypothermia. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately. Conserve fuel if necessary by keeping your house cooler than normal. Refuel kerosene heaters outside and keep them at least three feet from flammable objects. If you must travel, consider using public transportation. When using kerosene heaters, gas lanterns or stoves inside the house, maintain ventilation to avoid a buildup of toxic fumes. Never use charcoal or gas barbeques inside; they produce carbon monoxide. Connect lights and appliances directly to a generator, not to an existing electrical system. Note: Leave one light switch in the on position to alert you when service is restored. If your house is the only one without power, check your fuse box or circuit breaker panel. Turn off large appliances before replacing fuses or resetting circuits.
When the lights go out...
If power is out in the neighborhood, disconnect all electrical heaters and appliances to reduce the initial demand and protect the motors from possible low voltage damage.
If you leave home, turn off or unplug heat producing appliances. Unplug computers and other voltage sensitive equipment to protect them against possible surges when power is restored. Conserve water, especially if you are on a well. Keep doors, windows and draperies closed to retain heat in your home. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. If the door remains closed, a fully loaded freezer can keep foods frozen for two days. Be extremely careful of fire hazards caused by candles or other flammable light sources.
If you are caught in the car during a blizzard...
Pull off the highway and set your hazard lights to flash. Hang a distress flag from the radio antenna. Run the engine and heater about ten minutes each hour to keep warm. While the engine is running, slightly open a window and keep the exhaust pipe free of snow. Exercise lightly to maintain body heat. Huddle with passengers to stay warm. Take turns sleeping. Be careful not to run the car battery down. If stranded in a remote rural or wilderness area, spread a large cloth over the snow to attract attention of rescue personnel. Once the blizzard passes, you may need to leave the car and proceed on foot.
If you have pets...
Identification collar and rabies tag. Carrier or cage. Leash. Any medications (be sure to check expiration dates) Newspapers and plastic trash bags for handling waste. At least a two-week supply of food, water and food bowls. Veterinary records (most animal shelters do not allow pets without proof of vaccination). |