A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for Barbour, Garrett (MD), Harrison, Lewis, Preston, Taylor, Tucker, & Upshur counties in effect until 1pm Tuesday, November 27th. Light snow will begin tonight with snow increasing in intensity and the best time for accumulation being from midnight until dawn. Snow will taper off in the morning. Slippery roads will be possible.  Allow extra travel time and keep tuned into local stations for forecast updates.  

 

Severe winter storms can cause widespread damage and disruption.  Heavy snow often results in paralyzed transportation systems, automobile accidents due to slippery roads and stranded vehicles.  Glazing from ice storms topples utility lines and poles and makes travel virtually impossible.  These conditions can be a threat to life.  Nearly 70 people in the U.S. die from winter storms and extreme cold every year, and about 1,300 are killed in winter weather-related traffic accidents.

 

Following are some practical steps YOU can take to be prepared BEFORE A WINTER STORM OR EXTREME COLD:

 

1. Know the terms related to winter storms and extreme cold.

2. Learn how to protect your family's health during the winter months:

- Dress appropriately for the winter.

- Learn the physical dangers to your body.

- Gather emergency supplies for work or home.

 

3. Create a Family Disaster Kit.  

Be prepared for at least three days, if not more.  Go to www.ready.gov for details.  A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

a. Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

b. Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food

c. Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both

d. Flashlight and extra batteries

e. First aid kit

f. Whistle to signal for help

g. Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place

h. Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

i. Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

j. Manual can opener for food

k. Local maps

l. Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger

 

4. Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply:

a. Insulate walls and attics.

b. Caulk and weatherize doors and windows.

c. Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic.

 

5. Take steps to prevent frozen water pipes:

a. Locate and insulate pipes most susceptible to freezing – typically those near outer walls, in crawl spaces or in attics.

b. Wrap pipes with heat tape (UL approved).

c. Seal any leaks that allow cold air inside where pipes are located.

d. Disconnect garden hoses and shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets.

e. Make sure you know how to shut off the water, in case pipes burst.

 

6. Prepare for possible isolation in your home for several days:

a. Make sure you have sufficient heating fuel.  After a severe winter storm, regular fuel carriers may not reach you for days.

b. Have emergency heating equipment (fireplaces, wood burning stoves or space heaters) and ample fuel so you can keep at least one room of your house warm.  Always ensure proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.  NEVER use an outdoor grill to heat your home or to cook food indoors.

c. Keep fire extinguishers on hand and make sure your family knows how to use them.

 

 

7. PREPARE YOUR VEHICLE FOR THE WINTER:

 

Check or have a mechanic check the following items on your car:

a. Antifreeze levels - ensure they are sufficient to avoid freezing.

b. Battery and ignition system - should be in top condition and battery terminals should be clean.

c. Brakes - check for wear and fluid levels.

d. Exhaust system - check for leaks and crimped pipes and repair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning.

e. Fuel and air filters - replace and keep water out of the system by using additives and maintaining a full tank of gas. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.

f. Heater and defroster - ensure they work properly.

g. Lights and flashing hazard lights - check for serviceability.

h. Oil - check for level and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well.

i. Thermostat - ensure it works properly.

j. Windshield wiper equipment - repair any problems and maintain proper washer fluid level.

k. Install good winter tires - Make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.

 

8. Update the emergency kits in your vehicles with:

 

? a shovel

? windshield scraper and small broom

? flashlight

? battery powered radio

? extra batteries

? water

? snack food

? matches

? extra hats, socks and mittens

? first aid kit with pocket knife

? necessary medications

? blanket(s)

? tow chain or rope

? road salt and sand

? booster cables

? emergency flares

? fluorescent distress flag