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BE PREPARED FOR WINTER WEATHER! Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or commercial radio/television to stay informed about winter storm watches, warnings and advisories.
At home and work, plan ahead for winter storms by having these in hand:
If you are already indoors during hazardous winter weather:
Everyone is potentially at risk during winter storms. Most fatalities are indirectly related to the storm. People die from traffic accidents on icy roads, heart attacks while shoveling snow, and hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold. |
Dress for the storm if you must be outdoors during severe winter weather:
If you are caught outdoors during hazardous winter weather:
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Before starting out in a vehicle:
If you are stranded in your vehicle during hazardous winter weather:
A good automobile Winter Safety Kit includes: cell phone and charger, blankets, flashlight and extra batteries, first-aid kit, knife, high-calorie non-perishable food, extra clothing to keep dry, large empty can to use as emergency toilet, tissues and paper towels, small can and waterproof matches to melt snow for drinking water, sack of sand or cat litter for traction, shovel, windshield scraper and brush, tool kit, tow rope, battery booster cables, water container, compass and road maps. |
On the farm/pets
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WINTER STORM WATCH:
Severe winter conditions such as heavy snow or ice are possible - prepare
now.
WINTER STORM WARNING:
Severe winter conditions have begun or are about to begin in your area -
stay indoors!
BLIZZARD WARNING:
Snow and strong winds will combine to produce a blinding snow with near-zero
visibility, deep drifts, and life-threatening wind chill. Seek shelter
immediately!
WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY:
Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences
and may be hazardous. - exercise caution, especially when driving.
FROST/FREEZE WARNING:
Below freezing temperatures are expected and may damage crops. People who
have homes without heat need to take necessary precautions.
Links to other Winter Weather Safety pages:
Billy and Maria
coloring books
NWS Winter Weather
Page (National
Weather Service)
Winter
Storms, The Deceptive Killers (NOAA,
Red Cross, FEMA) [pdf]
Winter
Storm (American
Red Cross)
Disaster
Services foreign language materials (American Red Cross)