Winter Weather

Weather Emergency Term To Know

• Winter Storm WATCH: Severe Winter Conditions, such as heavy snow and ice, are possible within the next day or two in the watch area.
• Winter Storm WARNING: Severe winter conditions have begun or are about to begin in the warning area.
• Winter Storm TRAVELERS' ADVISORY: Winter weather conditions are expected to hinder travel, but the anticipated weather conditions are not serious enough to require warnings in the advisory area.

Be Prepared Before A Winter Storm Occurs:

• Check your battery powered television or radio.
• Make sure you have enough heating fuel.
• Keep food on hand that can be prepared without cooking and does not require refrigeration.
• Make sure you have flashlights with extra batteries.
• Make sure you have enough extra medicine, baby items and a first aid kit.
• Check your emergency heating source, i.e., fireplace, wood stove, space heater.
• Check your fire extinguisher, smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector to assure they are in good working order.
• Keep an emergency supply of water stored in unbreakable plastic containers. Fill your bathtub with water as a backup supply.
• Winterize your vehicles. Keep your care "winterized." Carry a winter car kit containing a flashlight, blanket and emergency flare.

During And After A Winter Storm

• Listen to the television or radio for current weather reports and emergency information.
• Dress for the season. Layers of protective clothing are warmer than thick clothing. Mittens are warmer than gloves. Wear head gear. Scarves should cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extremely cold air.
• If you must shovel, do some stretching exercises beforehand and do not overexert yourself if you are unaccustomed to it. Cold weather puts an extra strain on the heart and can bring on a heart attack -- a major cause of death during and after winter storms.
• Take winter driving seriously. Travel only if absolutely necessary.
• Learn and watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia. If symptoms are detected, seek medical attention.

Prepared by the Northeast States Emergency Consortium