Winter Storms

 Blizzards, heavy snows, ice storms, freezing rain, or sleet can be serious hazards.  The first line of protection is to keep informed of weather conditions in the surrounding area through area weather bulletins.

 What to do

 q       Check battery-powered equipment, heating fuel, food stock and other supplies.

 q       Layers of protective clothing are more effective and efficient that a single layer or thick clothing.

 q       Mittens are warmer that gloves.

 q       Cover your mouth to protect lungs from extremely cold air.

 q       Keep your car "winterized".  Maintain a full tank of gasoline to keep moisture out of tank.

 q       Carry a winter kit containing equipment to help keep you warm, visible, and alive if your are trapped in a winter storm.

 q       If a blizzard traps you in a car, avoid overexertion and exposure, turn on the dome light at night and don't panic.

 What not to do

q       Don't over exert yourself shoveling snow.  It is extremely hard work and can bring on  heart attack, a major cause of death during and after winter storms.

q       Don't take unnecessary trips.

Winter Storm Watch - means severe winter weather conditions may affect your area.

Winter Storm Warning - means that winter storm weather conditions are imminent.