Winter Hazards

Blizzard warning - The National Weather Service expects considerable snow and wind of 35 miles per hour or more. visibility can be so poor that you will not be able to see more than a few yards. A blizzard is most dangerous of all winter storms.

Travelers Advisory - Indicates falling, blowing or drifting snow, freezing rain or drizzle, sleet, or strong winds can make driving difficult but not serious enough to require a warning.

Winter Storm Warning - Means heavy snow, sleet or freezing rain is expected.

Winter Storm Watch - Means severe winter weather is possible.

7 SAFETY TIPS FOR WINTER TRAVEL

• Make sure your car is in good condition and properly serviced
• Maintain a full tank of gas
• Have an Emergency Winter Storm Kit in your car
• Travel in pairs if possible. If alone make sure someone knows your route.
• Drive with all possible caution
• Travel by daylight and use major highways if you can. Keep car radio tuned in for weather information
• Don't be daring and foolhardy. When storm conditions worsen rapidly, seek refuge immediately.

IF YOU DO GET INTO TROUBLE

• Don't panic. Think the problem through, do what is best slowly and carefully.
• If a storm traps you, pull off the road, remain in car, open a window, do not run car continuously, clear snow from exhaust pipe periodically, beware of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Set your directional lights to flashing, raise the hood of your car, hang a cloth from your antenna.
• Wait for help to arrive, DO NOT try to walk through a blizzard, getting lost can mean almost certain death.

WINTER EMERGENCY STORM KIT

• Road Salt
• Shovel
• Windshield Scraper
• Flashlight
• Blanket
• Booster Cables
• Tow Chain or Rope
• Battery Operated Radio & Extra Batteries
• Flares
• Maps
• Tool Kit
• Fire Extinguisher
• Gloves
• Extra Weather Gear
• Boots
  

< < RETURN TO DOMESTIC PREPAREDNESS