An Update on the Hazardous Weather Outlook
By Shaunda Rauch on October 26, 2012 from Emergency Services Blog via Connect-Bridgeport.com
Emergency Management agencies across the state were just briefed by the National Weather Service on a probable and worst case scenario regarding the track of the hurricane. The severity of the weather will be determined by elevation and location including days of rain and wind. If it snows, the snow could be wet and heavy in the higher elevations. This increases the potential for power interruptions due to downed lines. The dynamics of the storm can change, but meteorologists are preparing us for the possibility of unusual weather. Check out our Facebook page for a more detailed weather outlook summary from Jason Parrish. Listen to NOAA radio or check the NWS website for updates this weekend.
Take some preparations now .... Do you need home heating or generator fuel? Keep your cars fuel tank above half-a-tank. Shop carefully this weekend, don’t overstock with perishables. To help you with how to prepare for severe weather, below is guidance from the National Weather Service. Get Ready Bridgeport!
Winter Weather Safety Kit
The National Weather Service advises you to prepare a readiness kit to prepare for winter storms.
Be prepared, before the storm strikes!
At home and at work, primary concerns are the potential loss of heat, power, telephone service and a shortage of supplies if storm conditions persist.
You should have available:
- A flashlight and extra batteries.
- Battery-powered NOAA weather radio and portable radio to receive emergency information. These may be your only links to the outside.
- Extra food and water. High-energy food, such as dried fruit or candy, and food requiring no cooking or refrigeration is best.
- Extra medicine and baby items.
- First aid supplies.
- Heating fuel. Fuel carriers may not reach you for days after a severe winter storm.
- Emergency heating source, such as a fireplace, wood stove, space heater, etc. Learn to use properly to prevent a fire, and be sure to have proper ventilation.
- Fire extinguisher and smoke detector. Test your units regularly to ensure they are working properly.
In cars and trucks, plan your travel and check the latest weather reports to avoid the storm! Fully check and winterize your vehicle before the winter season begins.
Carry a winter storm survival kit including the following items:
- Blankets/sleeping bags
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Knife
- High-calorie, non-perishable food
- Extra clothing to keep dry
- A large empty can and plastic cover with tissues and paper towels for sanitary purposes
- A can, candles and water-proof matches to melt snow for drinking water
- Sack of sand (or cat litter)
- Shovel
- Windshield scraper and brush
- Tool kit
- Tow rope
- Booster cables
- Water container
- Compass and road maps.
Keep your gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
Try not to travel alone, and be sure to let someone know your travel plans - your timetable and route.
On the farm:
- Move animals to sheltered areas. Shelter belts, properly laid out and oriented, are better protection for cattle than confining shelters, such as sheds.
- Haul extra feed to nearby feeding areas.
- Have a water supply available. Most animal deaths in winter storms are from dehydration.
- Dress to fit the season. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing in several layers. Trapped air insulates. Layers can be removed to avoid perspiration and subsequent chill. Outer garments should be tightly woven, water repellent, and hooded.
- Wear a hat. Half your body heat loss can be from the head. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold. Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves. Try to stay dry.
