Get Ready for Winter Weather

As temperatures drop, it’s important to begin preparing for
colder months and the threats they present. Winter storms can bring
extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and high winds. These
conditions can create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia,
frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning and even heart attacks from
overexertion.

Winter storms can last a few hours or several days. They can
knock out heat, power and communication services. �Older adults,
young children and sick individuals are typically at greater risk
during this time.

Taking preparedness actions, such as winterizing your car and
keeping an emergency supply kit in it, can make a big difference in
protecting you and your family. Other actions you can take to
effectively prepare for winter conditions include: 

• Preparing your home to keep out the cold with insulation. Learn
  how to keep pipes from freezing. Install and test smoke alarms and
  carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
• Know your winter weather terms
  and paying attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing
  weather and winter storms. Sign up for your community’s warning
  system.
• Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days
  without power. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs,
  including medication. Remember the needs of your pets.
• Create an emergency supply
  kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight,
  warm clothes, blankets, bottled water and non-perishable snacks.
  Keep a full tank of gas and, if possible, have a professional check
  your battery, anti-freeze and cooling system.

Knowing the signs and basic treatments for frostbite and
hypothermia is also important. Frostbite can cause loss of feeling
and color around the face, finger and toes, as well as numbness and
firm or waxy skin. If you think you are experiencing frostbite, go
to a warm room, soak in warm water and use body heat to warm
yourself.

Similarly, if you are experiencing an unusually low body
temperature (less than 95 degrees) accompanied by confusion,
fumbling hands or slurred speech, you may be experiencing
hypothermia. If you are, go to a warm room, stay dry and wrap
yourself in blankets.

During a winter storm, you can also stay safe by doing the
following:

• Stay off the roads if possible.
• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use generators and grills
  outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas
  stovetop or oven.
• Check on your neighbors, while staying safe from COVID-19, by
  texting, emailing or calling them.

Visit Ready.gov/winter-weather
for more information on how to stay safe in winter weather.