FORT KNOX, Ky. (Feb. 12, 2014)
How to Prepare for a Winter Storm:
--- Be aware of the risk for severe winter weather in your area.
Stay informed and know winter storm terminology:
--- Freezing rain-Rain that freezes when it hits the ground. Ice may coat roads, walkways, trees and power lines.
--- Sleet-Rain that freezes into ice pellets before it reaches the ground. Sleet can cause moisture on roads and walkways to freeze.
--- Winter storm watch-Weather conditions are favorable for development of a winter storm. Stay tuned to radio or TV for more information and instructions.
--- Winter storm warning-A winter storm is occurring or will occur soon.
--- Blizzard warning-Considerable amounts of snow with sustained winds or frequent gusts up to 35 mph are expected to prevail for at least three hours. Visibility is reduced to less than a quarter mile.
Frost and freeze warning-Below-freezing temperatures are expected:
--- Make sure your home is properly insulated.
--- Caulk and weather strip doors and windows to keep out cold air.
--- Insulate pipes to prevent freezing.
Consider what to use for emergency heat in case the electricity goes out:
--- Fireplace with ample supply of wood
--- Small, well-vented camp stove with fuel
--- Portable space or kerosene heater (check with your fire department first)
--- Understand the heating system in your home. Be aware that the most destructive home fires happen during winter weather due to improper use of heating devices.
--- To prevent water damage from burst pipes, keep your home's temperature above freezing, even if you are away.
--- Keep your car's gas tank full to keep the fuel line from freezing and for emergency use.
--- Make sure you have an adequate amount of winter clothing and blankets for your family.
--- Get an emergency supply kit that includes rock salt, sand, snow shovels and other snow removal equipment, adequate winter clothing and batteries for radio and flashlights.
--- To slow the accumulation of snow and ice on your driveway and outside steps, pre-treat these surfaces by spreading a small amount of rock salt.
What to Do If There Is a Winter Storm:
--- Stay inside and monitor the radio or TV for more information or instructions.
--- Eat regularly and drink plenty of fluids.
--- Practice fire safety, check the batteries in your smoke alarms and make sure there is plenty of ventilation if you are using a heat source that can produce hazardous smoke or fumes.
--- Dress in several layers of warm clothing.
If you are outside:
--- Do not overexert yourself in snow shoveling or any other physical activity.
--- When shoveling, do not try to move large amounts of snow each time. Lift with your legs to help prevent serious back injury.
--- Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from the extremely cold air.
--- Keep dry and change any wet clothing as soon as possible.
--- Watch for signs of frostbite: loss of feeling or pale appearance in extremities.
--- Travel only if you must, during the day and on main roads.
If you are trapped in your car by a blizzard:
--- Pull to the side of the road and put the hazard lights on.
--- Remain in the vehicle, where rescuers are most likely to find you.
--- Run the engine for 10 minutes every hour to keep warm.
--- Exercise to maintain body heat, but do not overexert yourself.
--- Drink fluids to avoid dehydration.
--- At night, take turns sleeping and turn the inside light on.
--- Be careful not to waste battery power.
--- If you are stranded in a remote area, stomp large block letters in an open area that spell "HELP" or "SOS."
--- Leave the car on foot only if absolutely necessary and the blizzard has passed.
--- Watch for signs of hypothermia: uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, slurred speech and drowsiness.
--- If signs of hypothermia are detected, keep victims warm by removing all wet clothing, warm the center of their bodies first and seek medical attention immediately.
What to Do After a Winter Storm:
--- Stay tuned to radio or TV for more information or instructions.
--- Be aware of the possibility of flooding after a winter storm.
--- Seek medical attention immediately if needed.
--- Be very careful driving, as roads may still be wet or frozen.
--- Once you are in a safe place, report to your command if you are military
or government civilian personnel or a member of the selective reserves.
Safe Driving!
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