FORT SILL, Okla. (Dec. 8, 2016) -- Temperatures are now routinely dipping into the low 30s, which means winter has finally reached Fort Sill. It might be getting colder but there are some tips and tricks that can not only keep residences warm and automobiles in good condition, but also ensure that you don't get left out in the cold.
A common question many people have is where to find information about road conditions and weather warnings. At Fort Sill, the best place to check for this sort of information is the Fires Center of Excellence (FCoE) Facebook page. Taking a look at the Facebook page before heading out in cold weather can help prevent delays and accidents.
"That should be the first place everybody looks for weather related post information," said Keith Pannell, media relations officer for Fort Sill.
On the FCoE Facebook page, residents of the Lawton-Fort Sill community can get information about anything that might be delayed as a result of unfavorable weather conditions. The public affairs office does everything it can to ensure residents of Fort Sill know what's coming in advance of the weather.
"We actually start out days in advance of anticipated severe weather by sharing out local television station's weather graphics on the FCoE and Fort Sill Facebook pages," said Pannell.
This helps residents begin to prepare for inclement weather that might be approaching. With enough notice, residents can begin to stock up on supplies, reschedule appointments, and prepare for the worst.
"Once the weather gets closer and local forecasters, including Fort Sill's 26th Weather Detachment, get a better idea of what we are actually expecting, we'll put more information out for the local population, said Pannell.
This means that it's a good idea to check the FCoE Facebook page frequently for updates about impending weather conditions.
"The Public Affairs Office attends all severe weather meetings and tele-conferences. Those meetings are where the decisions about closing or late starting times are made," said Pannell, noting that he's often posting to the Facebook page while meetings are in progress. Pannell also reminds everyone that post leaders try to make decisions as quickly as possible so that Soldiers and employees can make decisions before the start of their day.
As soon as decisions about closures have been made, the public affairs office pushes out the information to the FCoE Facebook page, and then to local media. This includes local radio and Lawton, Wichita Falls and Oklahoma City television stations. It's important to check these sites regularly as information is subject to change.
"As one of the FCoE Facebook managers, one thing we always get after posting the information is a question about an appointment or meeting, or working out at the fitness center. The decision to close or delay opening of post is made for the safety of everyone. If a certain time is given for the post opening, nothing on post will happen before that time."
This means that all appointments on post will be rescheduled, either to a later time or a different day. The Main Exchange and the commissary, along with fitness centers, youth services activities and anything else that happens on post will happen at a later time.
Tracking approaching winter weather also means that it's important to prepare residences. Winterization of residences can help prevent problems from occurring and keep utility bills low during the coldest months of the year. Because extreme weather can be hard on a home, it's a good idea to prepare in advance. By keeping a residence in good repair and preparing well in advance for a possible emergency, you'll be as ready as possible to tough out even the worst weather.
Before treacherous weather hits, take a walk around the residence to examine the exterior. Check all shutters, siding, and other materials to make sure they're secure. If there's anything loose, contact your Corvias Military Living community liaison.
Southwest Oklahoma is very windy; structures can be prone to wind-related damage. Bring in all container plants or outside furniture before a storm hits.
Be sure to turn off water to outside faucets and open valves on faucets to allow them to drain before freezing temperatures settle in. To further prevent frozen pipes, remember to remove, drain, and store hoses that have been used outdoors during summer months.
To keep homes warm, experts suggest using draft snakes. These are small pieces of absorbent material in the shape of a snake that can help keep out drafts. Place them on window sills, between window frames, and against doors. If you're in older housing, this is a great way to prevent a potentially large heating bill. To keep the warmer temperatures constant inside your residence, experts also recommend maintaining the same temperature day and night. This helps to make sure that the furnace isn't working overtime.
Residents are encouraged to contact their Corvias community offices on post with any concerns or questions.
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