Winter Weather Advisory Tips

Recommended Actions

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds and poor visibility are likely. This will lead to Whiteout conditions, making travel extremely dangerous. Do not travel. If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle. Excerpted from ready.gov.

Before

Before winter approaches, add the following supplies to your emergency kit:

• Rock salt or more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways
• Sand to improve traction
• Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment
• Sufficient heating fuel
  • You may become isolated in your home and regular fuel sources may be cut off
  • Store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove
• Adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm

Learn more about what to do before winter storms and extreme cold.

During

During a winter storm, follow these helpful guidelines:

• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow
  • Overexertion can bring on a heart attack - a major cause of death in the winter
  • If you must shovel snow, stretch before going outside
• Keep dry
  • Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat
  • Wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly
• Watch for signs of frostbite
  • These include loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose
  • If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately
• Conserve fuel, if necessary, by keeping your residence cooler than normal
  • Temporarily close off heat to some rooms

Learn more about what to do during winter storms and extreme cold.