KYEM - Kentucky Division of Emergency Management

According to Buddy Rogers, Public Information Officer for KYEM and a KWPC committee member, "the bigger problems come with suddenly going into heating mode." He added,  "Those who haven't closed the (foundation) vents on their homes, wrapped exposed pipes in insulation, or done the winterizing needed ,will have to scramble some. Something as simple as undoing your garden hose from the outside water bib can prevent it from freezing and save costly plumbing repairs."

A big concern is space heaters used in cold weather, or individuals using generators if power goes out. "You need to use space heaters in places with adequate ventilation for the exhaust gases, and please, please, keep them away from curtains, furniture or other flammable items and always operate generators outside the home and away from windows and doors." He reminds us, "don't forget to keep fresh batteries in your smoke alarms as well as your weather alert radios."

When driving during winter weather conditions - Give plenty of room and watch your speed if there are slick spots on the roads. If you don't have to go anywhere in a situation like that, don't. Play it safe! Unless travel is absolutely necessary, stay off the roads and give the local and state highway crews time to make travel safe. Keep a Automobile Safety Kit, which might include, a small bag of kitty litter or rock salt in a car trunk, to be used if one gets stuck on a patch of ice or a frozen rut. A blanket or sleeping bag might come in handy if you become stranded.

Being prepared for winter weather (like all weather) starts at home. "BE AWARE - BE PREPARED"

During periods of inclement weather, stay tuned to your local broadcasting stations.

Possess and monitor a weather alert radio.

For additional information and helpful tips, please click here.

Click here to view and download a copy of the proclamation.

September has been designated as National Preparedness Month.

If the lights go out, are you prepared?

Something as simple as having a flashlight and extra batteries available in the event of a power outage can make you and your family more comfortable during these times.   

Kentuckians face many challenges throughout the year, from tornadoes, flooding, winter storms to man made hazards. Every household should be prepared to face these challenges at any given time.

Although the state and local government is expected to assist the public during these times, preparedness starts at home. In the event of large scale disasters the government may be unable to respond immediately. Be prepared! You should have a three day supply of food and water for each member of your family, along with essentials such as: medicines, flash lights, radio, extra batteries, matches, candles, first aid supplies, etc.