At Home and At Work...

Primary concerns are the potential loss of heat, power, telephone service, and a shortage of supplies if storm conditions continue for more than a day.

Have available
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and portable radio to receive emergency information. These may be your only link to the outside.
• Extra food and water. High energy food, such as dried fruit or candy, and food requiring no cooking or refrigeration is best.
• Extra medicine and baby items.
• First-aid supplies.
• Heating fuel. Fuel carriers may not reach you for days after a severe winter storm.
• Emergency heating source, such as a fireplace, wood stove, space heater, etc.
  Learn to use properly to prevent a fire.
  Have proper ventilation.
• Fire extinguisher and smoke detector

  Test units regularly to ensure they are working properly.

On the Farm

Take the following measures
• Move animals to sheltered areas. Shelter belts, properly laid out and oriented, are better protection for cattle than confining shelters, such as sheds.
• Haul extra feed to nearby feeding areas.
• Have a water supply available.. Most animal deaths in winter storms are from dehydration.

In Cars and Trucks...

Plan your travel and check the latest weather reports to avoid the storm!

Take the following actions
• Fully check and winterize your vehicle before the winter season begins.
• Carry a WINTER STORM SURVIVAL KIT:
  Winter Kit consists of :
  • blankets/sleeping bags;
  • flashlight with extra batteries;
  • first-aid kit;
  • Knife
  • high calorie, non-perishable food;
  • extra clothing to keep dry;
  • A large empty can and plastic cover with tissues and paper towels for sanitary purposes;
  • a smaller can and water-proof matches to melt snow for drinking water;
  • sack of sand (or cat liter);
  • shovel;
  • windshield scaper and brush;
  • tool kit;
  • tow rope;
  • booster cables;
  • water container;
  • compass and road maps;
• Keep your gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
• Try not to travel alone
• Let someone know your timetable and primary and alternate routes.

Dress To Fit the Season

Wear loosefitting, light-weight, warm clothing in several layers. Trapped air insulates. Layers can be removed to avoid perspiration and subsequent chill. Outer garments should be tightly woven, water repellent, and hooded. Wear a hat. Half your body heat loss can be from the head. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold. Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves. Try to stay dry.