Prepare for a winter storm by becoming familiar with the following safety tips.

Prepare Now

• The best way to be alerted to emergencies in our community is through Ready Wake, which offers voice or text communications about potential safety hazards and concerns as well as what action (if any) you should take. Sign up today!
• Know your local media stations used for emergency information. The radio stations in our area part of the emergency broadcast system are WQDR 94.7FM and WDCG 105.1FM
• A winter storm WATCH is issued about 24 hours in advance of a storm. It indicates at least a 50 percent chance of winter weather occurring
• As a winter storm becomes imminent, it may be upgraded to an ADVISORY or a WARNING. It indicates at least an 80 percent chance of winter weather occurring. Advisory conditions pose a significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property. Warning conditions pose a threat to life and/or property, and travel will become difficult to impossible
• Have appropriate cold weather clothing
• Have rock salt and/or sand to assist with traction in icy conditions
• Equip vehicle with all-season tires. Fill your gas tank
• Keep an emergency auto kit readily accessible (see our Emergency Supplies List for recommendations)
• Maintain sufficient heating fuel (if applicable)
• Make sure heating systems and fireplaces function properly
• Stock extra food and a jug for drinking water

Act Now

• Stay indoors until the storm ends
• Listen to designated media stations for emergency instructions and follow directions
• Do not overexert yourself when shoveling snow
• Wear warm, loose-fitting, layered, lightweight, dry clothing
• Watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia
• Do not use charcoal or gas grills to cook/heat indoors (carbon monoxide exposure)
• If in a vehicle, stay on main roads. If it becomes necessary to pull off the road, stay in your vehicle and use your hazard signals
• If trapped in your vehicle in a blizzard, clear your tailpipe, run your engine/heater for 10 minutes each hour, open your window slightly, and maintain body heat as much as possible. During nighttime, keep your dome light on so work crews can see your vehicle