Richmond, Va. (Newsradiowrva.com) - It’s Winter Weather Awareness Week, and the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) is encouraging Virginians to prepare for the potential impacts of harsh winter weather conditions.
VDEM has once again partnered with the National Weather Service (NWS) to raise awareness about the risks of winter weather and provide tips on preparing for “dangerously cold temperatures.”
Winter Weather Awareness Week (Dec. 2 - 6) focuses on ensuring that Virginians -- particularly vulnerable community members -- have all the supplies necessary to handle the unique challenges that can arise when temperatures drop.
Here are VDEM’s tips for preparing for snow, sleet, freezing rain, and cold temperatures:
• Build an emergency kit: It is important to include items like blankets, warm clothes, sand or rock salt, as well as other tools necessary for removing snow. Try to ensure that your kit has enough items to last for up to 3 days.
• Prep your home: Prepare your home by insulating pipes, caulking the windows and making sure that your home heating system is efficient. If you rely on electric space heaters, use them safely and keep them from items or materials that are flammable.
• Make a plan: Talk to family members and neighbors about what you would need to do in a winter storm or if there is a power outage.
• Stay informed: Follow VDEM and the National Weather Service (NWS) for the latest updates and think about signing up for the local emergency notifications.
• Be cautious on the roads: In the case of severe weather, make plans to stay off the roads to ensure safety. If traveling is required, check your tires, ensure to have an emergency kit packed and drive safely on the ice and snow.
• Power outage preparedness: Winter weather conditions could possibly lead to power outages — which could affect homes, heating systems and communications. VDEM encourages having back up power sources and knowing how to use them. Remember to keep a flashlight, batteries and a charged phone.
More information on how to better prepare for winter weather conditions can be found on the NWS website.
