Winter Weather

Preparedness

Build a Winter Ready Kit

Have emergency kits ready in your home, car, and workplace. Winter weather can leave you stuck on the road, in a building, or at home without power.

• Check out our comprehensive guide to creating kits!

Prepare Your Home

• Learn how to keep pipes from freezing
• Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups
• Gather supplies for being at home without power for several days
• Keep in mind each person and pet’s needs, including medication

During

Know the Alerts

• Winter Storm Watch: Severe winter weather may happen. Stay alert and prepare.
• Winter Weather Advisory: Conditions are expected to cause significant inconvenience or potential danger.
• Winter Storm Warning: Severe weather is happening or imminent. Usually are issues 12 to 24 hours before the event is expected to begin.

Stay off roads if possible

• If trapped in your car, stay inside. Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. When the engine is running, open an upwind window slightly for ventilation and periodically clear snow from the exhaust pipe. This will protect you from possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Check the NWS forecast and road conditions before driving
• Keep Winter Ready kit in your vehicle

Bundle Up Outdoors

• Dress in layers: loose-fitting, lightweight, and water-resistant clothing
• Wear mittens instead of gloves (mittens keep hands warmer!)
• Use a hat and scarf to protect your head, face, and lungs from cold air
• Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia