Preparing for Winter Weather

Your primary concerns at home or work during a winter storm are loss of heat, power and telephone service and a shortage of supplies if storm conditions continue for more than a day. In either place, you should have available:

• Flashlight and extra batteries

• Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and portable radio to receive emergency information

• Extra food and water such as dried fruit, nuts, granola bars and other food requiring no cooking or refrigeration.

• Extra prescription medicine

• Baby items such as diapers and formula

• First-aid supplies

• Heating fuel: refuel before you are empty; fuel carriers may not reach you for days after a winter storm

• Emergency heat source: fireplace, wood stove or space heater properly ventilated to prevent a fire

• Fire extinguisher, smoke alarm; test smoke alarms monthly to ensure they work properly

• Extra pet food and warm shelter for pets

• Review generator safety: Never run a generator in an enclosed space

• Make sure your carbon monoxide detector is working correctly and that the outside vent is clear of leaves and debris. During or after the storm, make sure it is cleared of snow.