WINTER STORMS SAFETY TIPS

Winter storms bring snow, cold temperatures, and often dangerous driving
conditions.  The amount of snow that becomes threatening depends on where you
live.  Large amounts of snow are a regular occurence in the northern states,
while a very small amount can cause problems in the southern states.  Take the
blizzard of 1993 and you have serious problems for everyone from the south to
the north.  WHAT CAN YOU DO TO BE READY FOR IT?

                                        GETTING READY

1.  Have your car winterized and ready before every winter season.  Create a
    winter storm kit for your car in case of emergency.  The necessary items to
    include are extra blankets, shovel, sack of sand or cat litter, flashlight,
    first aid kit, extra clothing, nonperishable food stuffs, booster cables,
    tow chain, tire chains, red signal flag/cloth, knife, paper towels, and
    extra hat and mittens.

2.  Have extra blankets and extra medication on hand.

3.  Check your portable radio and television set to make sure they are in good
    working order.  They may be the only way to have outside contact if a storm
    snows you in.

4.  Watch The Weather Channel, local TV, or listen to radio to keep a close tab
    on any developing winter storm systems.


                                        DURING A WATCH

A winter storm WATCH means that severe winter weather conditions may affect
your area.  This could mean freezing rain, sleet or heavy snow.  If a winter
storm WATCH is issued for your county or parish, GET SET.

1.  Keep posted on developing weather conditions by watching The Weather
    Channel, local TV, or listen to radio.

2.  Check your supply of heating fuel.  Many times in a blizzard or big
    snowstorm your supplier won't be able to deliver fuel.  Arrange to have
    them come before a storm hits.

3.  Check your food stock.  Ensure you have enough and include foods that won't
    require cooking or refrigeration in case the power goes out.

4.  Ensure you fill up your car with gas to keep your gas line from freezing up
    due to excess water condensation.


                               DURING A WARNING

A winter storm WARNING means that severe winter weather (freezing rain, sleet,
or heavy snow) is about to occur.  If a winter storm WARNING is issued for your
area, GO TO SAFETY.

1.  Stay indoors during the storm.  Do not travel unless absolutely necessary
    or an emergency.  Winter storms and cold air can test even the most
    physically fit people.  Try not to overexert.

2.  If you must go outside, wear several layers of clothes.  Several layers of
    clothes will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat.  Outer garments
    should be tightly woven, water repellent, and include a hat or hood.  The
    hat or hood will protect your head and face from the bitter cold wind
    driven air.  Wool mittens or gloves will protect your hands.


3.  Be careful walking on snowy, icy covered walkways and roads.

4.  Don't die shoveling the piles of snow.  Each year many die of heart attacks
    trying to shovel the snow.  Make sure you have someone in good shape do
    the driveway.

5.  Be extremely careful if you use a portable heater to offset the cold.  Be
    sure you know how to use it and what its limits are.


                       AVOID TRAVELING DURING A STORM, BUT IF YOU MUST

Traveling during winter storms is a dangerous business.  You must be ready to
face the elements if you get stuck in your car.

1.  Double check your winter kit.  Make sure all necessary items are there.

2.  Let someone know when you expect to arrive.  If your car does get stuck
    along the way, they can send help out along your predetermined route.

3.  If the storm begins to exceed you and your car's limits you need to seek
    shelter immediately.  Stop and don't go on.  Check into a hotel and travel
    after the storm's over.  Let mother nature win one.

4.  Plan your travel and select main roadways if possible.

5.  Ensure gas tank is filled before going into open country.

6.  Try not to travel alone; two or more people are preferable.

7.  Travel in convoy with other vechicles if possible.


                     IF YOU GET STUCK IN YOUR CAR

1.  Stay with your car.  DO NOT try to walk to safety.  Being in open country
    with blowing and drifting snow and bitter cold could mean certain death.
    You are more likely to be found, and sheltered, in your car.

2.  Don't Panic and Overexert.  Hitting the panic button and trying to pull,
    push, or shove your car out may lead to a heart attack.  Use your head and
    think.

3.  Keep fresh air coming into your car.  Open a down wind window slightly to
    let air in.  Don't let your car become completely sealed by snow with no
    open windows you will suffocate.

4.  Run your car and use your heater sparingly. Have your downwind window
    open. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won't overcome you in the car.

5.  Leave the overhead light on so that work crews can see you especially
    at night to rescue you.

6.  Tie your red flag or cloth on your car to let rescuers know your in the
    car.

7.  As you sit in your car, keep moving your arms and legs to keep blood
    circulating and to stay warm.

8.  If your with other people in the car take turns staying awake.  This to
    ensure the car doesn't get sealed by snow or the exhaust pipe clogs
    resulting in carbon monoxide death.


Source and Acknowledgement:  The American Red Cross & NOAA