unless you live under a rock, you have heard of 2016 deadly snow storm that damaged the coast is, buried cars, stopped the transport and 42 deaths. The storm went snow of the Gulf Coast to New England, with near record snowfall in Washington, D.C. to New York.
the storm preparation is one of those topics that we really don't discuss until right before a big storm hits. Super snow storms are dangerous because they come with freezing rain, winds and subzero time that can be debilitating. Thus, it is a good time to share some useful tips on how to move forward to a winter of emergency home.
one of the biggest concerns in the winter is your ability to survive when your heating, electricity and communications services were disrupted for days at a time. Here are some reminders to help you and your loved ones stay safe:
create a storm preparation Kit
there are a number of essential items to buy in advance. Your kit can include:
- a flashlight batteries drinking water
- not perishable food
- A first aid
- maintenance drugs
- a tool kit
- a bag of salt Rock
- snow shovels or snow removal equipment
- Extra blankets and clothing
Plan for the worst-case scenario by keeping the value of a week of food safety and supplies of Office. If you live in a remote area, keep your hand more materials.
stay warm
it is easier to stay warm to warm up. Follow these tips to stay warm during a storm. This includes the storage of wood if you have a fireplace or heating if fuel storage you have a wood stove.
a portable heater is convenient and works well. But don't forget to keep at least three feet of furniture and curtains. Keep the unit on the floor and out of reach of children. And if you have access to an outdoor generator, a cord electric enough long to prevent the generator from at least 20 feet from doors, windows and vents.
if the power goes out, close the parts not used to consolidate and retain heat. Be sure to wear clothes in layers and use blankets or sleeping bags to stay warm.
it is also important to remember your four-legged friend! If you have a pet in the open air, bring them inside in harsh conditions.
it is also important to remember what not to do in an emergency winter. Never heat up your House with your oven and avoid using candles because they pose a fire hazard. Never use gasoline inside where fumes can ignite.
make a family emergency Plan
according to the Red Cross, your emergency plan should describe how your family will communicate with them and how you will get together in case you are separated. Overview of what your family plans to do if an emergency strikes and who has specific responsibilities to work as a team.
choose an emergency contact person who will receive any calls or SMS with their state information. Also create an evacuation plan that identifies where you meet and what route is the best to take. Your family should give it a try at least twice a year. Be sure to include a strategy for the evacuation of pets, too.
download the resource 'be smart. "Taking part know your alerts and warnings" for a summary of emergency notifications. Phone smart applications, such as those provided by the American Red Cross, provide information on find shelter, first aid and ask help for recovery.
stay Plugged In
the weather can change at the drop of a hat, so stay tuned to your local news via the radio or television for critical information from the National Weather Service.
always keep your phone and charger nearby. Your cell phone could be your lifeline when you're locked up because of bad weather. Buy a radio with batteries and spare batteries. You can also register in advance to receive notifications of local weather service emergency.
If your community experiences a disaster, register on the American Red Cross safe and well website let your family and friends know that you are safe. You can also call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), and then select the prompt for a 'disaster' to register.
stay home if Possible
protect you and your family is your first priority in a winter emergency. Minimize your trip from driving and walking can be dangerous due to the icy conditions, snow, visibility is low and extreme cold. Unfortunately, the many victims of the storm of snow are not the result of direct storm, rather indirect impact due to traffic accidents on roads snowcovered or because of frostbite and hypothermia, prolonged exposure to the cold.
, whereas at home, avoid burnout then shovel the snow. overexertion can cause a heart attack, the leading causes of death in the winter. If you shovel snow, stretch before going out, layer your clothing to stay warm and stop taking frequent breaks.
if the conduct is absolutely necessary, please read our 2015 with winter driving tips. Keep disaster supplies in your vehicle, make sure that your vehicle is properly equipped and use extra care on the roads. If the power is out for more than a few days, your community may have shelters. If you do not have a sufficient supply to stay warm in your home and you can get there safely, ready to go to the shelter.
above all, use common sense to make decisions on how to survive in a winter storm. It is always better to play it safe and stay in close communication with your family and friends.