Winter is here and the potential for storms, freezing temperatures and illness is high. Be prepared! There are a few things you and your family can do to ensure you are safe and warm this season. An excellent resource on how to be prepared for winter weather can be found at ready.gov/winter-weather or you may call 211.
Get ahead of any storm by taking these steps: Have enough food on hand for two to three days; check that your carbon monoxide alarm is functioning—especially if you may be using an alternative heat source; test your generator and have fuel available; keep cellular devices charged, replace flashlight and radio batteries. Don’t forget your pets. In cases of extreme cold it is necessary to limit their outdoor exposure.
It is also important to plan for the possibility of power outages. Know how you will stay warm. If you are using a generator, ensure proper ventilation, keep it at least 20 feet from your home and never operate it indoors. Another tip: It is not safe to burn paper in a fireplace.
Keep in mind that storms pass, and conditions will improve. Your ability to care for yourself and your family, independently for a couple of days gives the snow removal crews and energy restoration teams time to respond to make conditions safe again.