Taking preparedness actions now can make a big difference in protecting you and your family. Consider the following actions to ensure you are effectively preparing for winter conditions:
- Small, low-cost actions around the home can make a big difference in protecting against winter weather: learn how to prevent pipes from freezing, how to properly insulation to keep out the cold, and how to install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups
- Know your winter weather terms and paying attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms. Sign up for your community’s warning system.
- Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Remember the needs of your pets.
- Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water and non-perishable snacks. Keep a full tank of gas and, if possible, have a professional check your battery, anti-freeze and cooling system.
- Winterize your vehicle and know what to do if you get stuck on the road. Remember to keep a full tank of gas and, if possible, have a professional check your battery, anti-freeze and cooling system.
Colder temperatures bring a higher risk of frostbite and hypothermia, prepare by understanding the basic signs and treatments.
Frostbite causes loss of feeling and color around the face, fingers, and toes.
- Signs can include numbness, discoloration, and firm or waxy skin.
- Treat by going to a warm room, soaking in warm water, and using body heat to warm yourself.
Hypothermia causes unusually low body temperature (less than 95 degrees).
- Signs can include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, and slurred speech.
- Treat by going to a warm room, stay dry and wrap yourself in blankets, and make sure to prioritize warming up the head and center of the body first.
Visit Ready.gov/winter-weather for more information on how to stay safe in winter weather.
