by Kate Evans
Sudden turns in winter weather or predicted storms can pose challenges to families and individuals, especially in rural areas.
Taking some time to revisit emergency plans and check on supplies can take the bite out of winter weather emergencies.
Families should be prepared for possible severe weather emergencies during the winter, including heavy snowstorms, blizzards, freezing rain or sleet, subfreezing temperatures, extremely high winds or severe thunderstorms.
These weather situations can knock out heat, electric power and communications to homes and businesses for days.
The Department of Homeland Security’s ready.gov website and other sources provide information and tips for preparing for winter weather emergencies.
Officials urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel during a winter storm watch. If a winter storm warning is issued, remain indoors.
Stay informed about winter storm watches and warnings by listening to NOVA Weather Radio or monitoring the internet or radio and television stations.
Emergency home supplies
Have rock salt, sand, snow shovels and other snow removal equipment and warm clothing and blankets on hand. Families should try to have 7 to 10 days of supplies of extra food, water and medications at home and 7-14 gallons of water for each family member.
Emergency kit supplies include ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits and vegetables, granola bars, protein bars and drinks, crackers, peanut butter and jelly, liquid bleach to purify water, multi-vitamins, rain gear, warm socks, blankets or sleeping bags.
Also include hats and gloves, mess kits, paper cups, paper towels, plastic utensils, flashlight and batteries, a portable radio, maps, a can opener, a utility knife, toilet paper, personal hygiene items, baby food and baby supplies, over the counter medications, eyeglasses, cell phones and keys.
Stock foods you normally use that don’t need refrigera- tion or cooking. Keep extra food and water for your pets.
Staying warm
If power is lost during severe winter storms or blizzards, it could be days before power is restored during severe storms.
If the power goes out, use alternate heat sources safely. Maintain sufficient ventilation if using kerosene heaters and keep them at least three feet away from flammable objects. Refuel the heaters outdoors.
Never use a gas range or oven for heating inside your home, cabin or camper.
Keep fire extinguishers on hand and ensure that everyone in your household knows how to use them.
Make sure your home is well-insulated and has weather-stripping around doors and windows to keep the heat inside. Keep pipes from freezing and know how to shut off water valves in case a pipe bursts. Emergency basics
Have a first aid kit and several flashlights with extra batteries and bulbs. Be careful if you are using candles. Have a battery-powered portable radio to listen for emergency broadcasts.
Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors on each floor of your home. Test them regularly. Replace batteries annually on all alarms. Store gas cans and flammable liquids away from your home.
Watch for downed electrical wires and report them to utility companies. Instruct all family members to call 911 in case of emergency. Tune to your local radio station or television station for broadcasts and instructions from the Emergency Alert System during emergencies.
Practice and review your emergency plan every six months with all family members.
Take a Red Cross first aid and CPR class. Have a list of medications, medical conditions, allergies and immunizations for all family members.
Medical emergencies
Avoid overexertion from shoveling heavy snow.
Get medical help immediately if frostbite is detected. Symptoms include loss of feeling and pale appearance of extremities like fingers, toes, earlobes and the tip of the nose.
Signs of hypothermia include uncontrollable shivering, slurred speech, disorientation, incoherence and drowsiness. If suspected, remove the victim’ s wet clothing, dress them in dry clothing and wrap them in a blanket.
Give warm, non-caffeinated beverages if they are conscious. Get medical help as soon as possible.
In case of injury
In case of injury, remember Check-Call-Care.
Check the scene to ensure that it’s safe for you to assist.
Call for help.
Care for the person who is injured.
Control bleeding and keep the victim warm and covered to prevent them from going into shock. Avoid contact with blood and body fluids. Use disposable gloves and breathing barriers. Wash hands with soap and water after giving care.
