Adverse Winter Weather: FEMA Urges Citizens to be Cautious
Release Date: January 14, 2008
Release Number: FNF-08-003
FEMA is closely monitoring the winter storm affecting parts of the Northeast. FEMA stands ready to support and will coordinate with federal partners, tribal, state and local governments and voluntary agencies if needed.
While the federal government continues to monitor and prepare for possible winter storm hazards, FEMA urges citizens also to be cautious. There are steps individuals can take to protect their families during winter storms.
Before A Winter Storm:
Prepare a disaster kit
and add the following supplies:
Prepare for possible isolation in your home by having sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off. For example, store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove. Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.
During A Winter Storm:
Listen to your radio, television, or NOAA Weather Radio for weather reports and emergency information.
Conserve fuel, if necessary, by keeping your residence cooler than normal. Temporarily close off heat to some rooms.
If you are outdoors, keep dry. Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly.
Drive only if it is absolutely necessary. If you must drive, consider the following:
-
Travel in the day, don't travel alone, and keep others informed of your schedule.
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Stay on main roads; avoid back road shortcuts
For more information on planning for winter storms, please visit
www.fema.gov/hazard/winter/index.shtm
.
Winter Preparedness Tips can be found at
www.fema.gov/media/archives/2007/110607.shtm
.
FEMA coordinates the Federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terrorism.
