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Seasonal Preparedness - Winter

Plan ahead for winter safety!

Being prepared for a winter emergency is as easy as one, two, three!

Develop a Family Emergency Plan - Be informed about plans at your workplace, and anywhere you and your family spend time.  Ready.gov can help you develop a family plan should disaster strike

Stock Up on Emergency Supplies - During an emergency, electric, heat, air conditioning or phone service may not work. Make sure you’re covered -  download this checklist from Ready.gov (.pdf)

Be Aware - Local radio and television stations provide official up-to-date information during an emergency.

Contact

Dressing for Cold Weather Info Graphic

Safety First for Kids

Remember these tips when you go out to play.

Help your Neighbor

If your neighbor is elderly or dependent on life-sustaining or health-related equipment make plans now to ensure their needs are met during severe winter and power outages.

Winter Fire Safety

Kerosene Heaters

Follow these safety tips when using kerosene heaters:

Wood Stoves and Fireplaces

Make sure you are using your wood-burning stove, fireplace and heater safely.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas created by car exhaust, home heating systems and obstructed chimneys that claims about 1,000 lives in the United States each year.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include sleepiness, headaches and dizziness.

If you experience the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning get into fresh air immediately and call 911 for emergency medical help. 

Health Risks During the Winter

Frostbite

People work or play outdoors during the winter can develop frostbite and not even know it.  Watch for these danger signs:

Hypothermia

Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can cause hypothermia.  Be aware of these symptoms:

Physical Exertion

Risk of a heart attack increases with activity like shoveling, clearing debris or pushing a car. You should:

How can I Protect my Home?

Get your home ready for the winter season by following these tips:

Protecting Water Pipes

What if I Lose Power?

If you lose electrical service during the winter:

Electric Generators

Follow these safety guidelines when operating a generator:

Winter Safety on the Road

If you must drive during a winter storm – preparation is key!

What do I do if I Become Trapped in my Car?

Here are some tips to follow:

Dress Appropriately

How can I Protect my Pets?

Winter is a time we should pay close attention to the safety of our pets: