Tag: winter preparedness

Categories
Uncategorized

Strategies for Winter Preparedness

The American Red Cross is doing all that it can to warn people about the importance of winter preparedness.  Beyond issuing a reminder that winter storms can present an unexpected emergency for those traveling, as well as power outages for those staying at home, the Red Cross has recommendations for winter preparedness:

Follow these tips to stay safe and warm during the storm:

  • Do not use candles for lighting if the power goes out. Use flashlights only.
  • Don’t forget your pets — bring them indoors. If you can’t bring them inside, provide adequate shelter to keep them warm and make sure they can get to unfrozen water.

Avoid traveling by car in a storm, but if you must…

  • Have in the car an emergency preparedness kit, including ice scraper and brush, boots, gloves or mittens, blanket or sleeping bag, show shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, metal or plastic cup, first aid kit, jumper cables, granola or candy bars, sand or cat litter for tire traction, red-colored cloth to alert rescuers, flares, reflectors, cellular phone, and cell phone charger.

The list is a good reminder to think about your pets as well this winter. What extra steps do you need to take to ensure their safety if a winter storm comes your way? A pet survival kit is convenient and a good idea to have on hand for winter and other emergencies.

Source:

http://www.shakopeenews.com/news/general_news/tis_season_winter_weather_survival_tips-112

Categories
Uncategorized

Winter Preparedness on the Minds of Governors

Governors across the United States are warning residents to prepare for winter related emergencies. This includes homeowners getting their homes ready for winter, making sure they able to stay warm, and then helping their neighbors who need help getting prepared. For example, Governor Brian Schweitzer has issued a call to action for Montanans to prepare for the winter months.

“I’ve issued a call to service to be winter ready because we know Montana winters are rough and we need to be prepared,” he said. “So, we have something called warm hearts warm homes. In particular we want to help people who need a little extra help.”

First Lady Nancy Schweitzer is asking residents to help neighbors by donating coats. The One Warm Coat Drive has already collected nearly 4,000 coats.

It’s a great idea to encourage neighbors to help them get prepared. Going beyond just giving out coats should be a part of your emergency preparedness plans. For example, do you have an extra car kit or home survival kit to share with elderly neighbors or the poor? Make sure you have the kits you need for your household, and then get extra. You can be both charitable and prepared for emergencies.

Source:

http://www.kulr8.com/news/local/78659002.html

Categories
Uncategorized

Red Cross on Winter Preparedness

There’s a push from many government and non-profit agencies to educate the public on winter preparedness issues. It’s vital for families to make plans and purchase supplies to survive winter storms and related power outages. Unfortunately, many homes don’t even have a basic home survival kit and enough food and water to last them for three days.

The Red Cross, through its local chapters, is warning local residents to prepare. For example, El Paso, Texas is bracing for snowfall and the Chapter of the American Red Cross is urging residents in the area to take extra steps to prepare. Executive Director Mark Matthys said in a news release:

“Winter storm-specific supplies should include a warm coat, gloves or mittens, hat and water-resistant boots for each member of the family… It’s also a good idea to have extra blankets, extra warm clothing, and cat litter or sand for traction. Fill your gas tank and be sure phone batteries are charged.”

If you’re already prepared, that’s great. Consider getting extra supplies for extended family members and neighbors who might need your help. Also, make plans for how you would travel on foot to help them or with limited gas. Water, food, light and warmth should be your priorities.

Source:

http://www.kvia.com/Global/story.asp?S=11594474