City of Renton Encourages Residents to Prepare for Winter Weather
The City of Renton encourages residents and businesses to prepare for winter weather including potential wind, snow showers and freezing temperatures. The city urges the public to prepare for cold temperatures and possible power outages over the weekend.
With temperatures expected to remain close to or below freezing, the roads can get extremely icy and unsafe and the city urges drivers to prepare for winter driving conditions. Citizens are reminded to have their personal/family emergency plans ready including food, water, alternative shelter, a land-line telephone, transistor/battery-operated radio and other tools that can help respond to an emergency. Citizens should have enough supplies for at least 72 hours and beyond.
Be Prepared
Information to help you plan and prepare for all types of emergencies is posted on the City of Renton website at rentonwa.gov. Here are some actions you should take immediately.
• Dress appropriately before going outdoors. The air temperature does not have to be below freezing for someone to experience cold emergencies such as hypothermia and frostbite. Wind speed can also create dangerously cold conditions even when the temperature is not that low.
• Wear waterproof, insulated boots to help avoid hypothermia or frostbite by keeping your feet warm and dry and to maintain your footing in ice and snow.
• During the winter months, make sure to keep your gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines. Keep extra blankets in the trunk in the event that you are stranded and have to wait for help.
• Prevent water pipes in the home from freezing, and thaw them if they do freeze. American Red Cross.
• Stock your emergency car kit, especially with a battery-operated radio, water, blankets, and non-perishable foods. Emergency car kit checklist.
• Check on neighbors who may need help being prepared for a storm, such as the elderly or people with special needs. Be sure they have emergency supplies.
News and Information Resources
Northwest Weather Service (Seattle)
Winter Safe Driving
General Storm Preparedness
Regional Public Information Network
Snow and Garbage collection