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Red Cross Offers Winter Storm Checklist

It's possible the first major winter storm will hit the southern part of the state later this week. The Red Cross is offering the following tips to stay safe and to be prepared.

A winter storm could affect the southern part of the state later this week. To help you be prepared, the Red Cross offers the following tips.

A winter storm could affect the southern part of the state later this week. To help you be prepared, the Red Cross offers the following tips.

 Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
K Reakes
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What should I do:

  • Dress in several layers of lightweight clothing, wear mittens and a hat (one that covers your ears).
  • Wear waterproof, insulated boots to keep your feet warm and dry and to maintain your footing in ice and snow.
  • Minimize travel. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle.
  • Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for critical information.
  • Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
  • Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
  • Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
  • Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen drinking water.
  • Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.

What supplies do I need: 

  • Food — at least a three-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food
  • Flashlight
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
  • (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
  • Extra batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Medications (seven-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
  • Multi-purpose tool
  • Sanitation and personal hygiene items
  • Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
  • Check on your animals and make sure that their access to food and water is not blocked by snow drifts, ice or other obstacles. If possible, bring them indoors.
  • Cell phone with chargers
  • Family and emergency contactWhat do I do after a storm?

If your community experiences a severe winter storm, or any disaster, register on the American Red Cross Safe and Well Web site available through RedCross.org to let your family and friends know about your welfare. If you don’t have Internet access, call 1-866-GET-INFO to register.

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