More than 90 million people are under winter weather alerts this week in a “once in a generation type event.” A major winter storm will be impacting a large part of the country with the holidays right around the corner. Ensure you and your loved ones are prepared to face these cold conditions through the weekend by taking these steps:
- Bundle up: In dangerously cold conditions, you should limit your time outside. However, if you need to go outside, it is critical to layer up to keep your body warm. According to FEMA, “layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing will keep you warmer than a bulky sweater.”
- Stock food for emergencies: Winter weather can easily disrupt your ability to leave the house, so plan to have a few days’ worth of food supply on hand. It is recommended that you keep foods in stock that have a long storage life, require little or no cooking, and don’t require refrigeration in cases of power outages or disrupted utilities. BONUS: Don’t forget to have extra food for your dogs, cats, and other furry friends as well.
- Avoid non-essential travel: The weather may also be causing dangerous road conditions as well as flight delays and cancellations this holiday season. With millions of people expected to travel away from home this holiday season, staying home will be one way to reduce the stress and pressure created from traveling this busy season.
- Prepare your car for unexpected situations: Snow, ice and strong wind can create dangerous road conditions. This means that if you must drive, you should make sure your tires, battery, heater, and antifreeze levels are prepared for the road ahead. If you live in an area at an increased risk for severe winter weather, you should also take extra precautions and keep an emergency kit in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Before hitting the road, ensure you have extra layers of clothes, socks, blankets, jumper cables, an ice scraper, and food/water.
Stay warm and safe this winter by following these four tips or checking out additional resources below:
- Stay Safe and Healthy in Winder: https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/winterweather/index.html
- 5 Tips to Stay Warm and Safe This Winter: https://www.fema.gov/blog/5-tips-stay-warm-and-safe-winter
- Winter Weather: https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather
