Plan now or pay later; being prepared biggest key in facing foul weather

  • Shelly Webb
  • December 4, 2011
  • 300
                        
Summary—Don’t let these fifty-degree days fool you. Winter is on the horizon whether we like it or not. What will this year’s winter season bring? While we aren’t sure, we know it’s best to be prepared for anything, especially if you live in Ohio! Story-- According to the National Weather Service, this year’s winter season may be a bit milder where temperatures are concerned, but you can probably count on more than normal snowfalls. Being prepared for any type of winter weather is crucial because things can change in a short amount of time. Although winter weather varies across the country, nearly all Americans, regardless of where they live, are likely to face some type of severe winter weather at some point in their lives. Holmes County EMA Director, Gary Mellor wants to remind area residents to be prepared as winter approaches. “Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days,” Mellor said. “Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain. Holmes County has felt the impact ice storms can bring and having a plan for winter weather is the best defense” A major concern with any winter weather is the possibility of power and communication outages to your home or business, which in some cases may last for several days. “People do need to take winter weather seriously,” Mellor said. “The National Weather Service refers to winter storms as the ‘Deceptive Killers’ because most deaths are indirectly related to the storm. Instead, people die in traffic accidents on icy roads and of hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold. This is why it’s so important to be prepared for winter weather before it strikes.” Mellor said that prior to winter make sure you have necessary items such as rock salt, sand, snow shovels and sufficient heating supplies in case you become isolated in your home and your regular fuel source becomes unavailable. “Also have on hand adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm,” he added “A battery operated radio is essential along with extra batteries. Have essentials such as water and food and be alert to changing weather conditions and minimize your travel unless it is necessary and keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle.” Vehicles should also be prepared for winter weather as well. Mellor said all antifreeze levels should be checked, battery and ignition systems should also be maintained and terminals cleaned. Brakes, fuel and air filters should be checked along with exhaust systems. It is also recommended to keep your fuel tank full during the winter to avoid freezing. Heaters and defrosters should be working properly; lights and windshield wiper equipment should also be checked. “Another very important aspect to being prepared for winter driving is tires,” Mellor said. “Make sure you have adequate tread on your tires or install new ones. Tires can make a huge difference in how well your vehicle maneuvers the snowy roads.” You should also keep a shovel, flashlight, battery powered radio, batteries, water, matches, extra clothing, a blanket, salt, a chain or rope, and a first aid kit with flares and a pocket knife in your trunk. These items can come in very handy in many weather related situations. “Sometimes understanding the terminology and exactly what is coming can be most helpful,” Mellor added. “Freezing rain translates as ‘rain that freezes when it hits the ground, it usually creates a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines. Freezing rain can be pretty treacherous. Sleet is actually rain that turns to ice pellets before it hits the ground, sleet can also cause moisture on roads to freeze and become slippery. If your area is under a winter weather advisory that means the conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous, but when caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening. A winter storm watch means that a winter storm is possible in your area and you should stay alert to the weather. A winter storm warning means a winter storm is occurring or will occur soon. Of course a blizzard warning is the most serious and means that sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 miles per hour or greater and considerable amounts of falling or drifting snow are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer. This warning also indicates a reduced visibility to less than a quarter mile.” One other danger that claims lives every winter is carbon monoxide. The colorless, odorless but deadly gas that creeps and takes over an individual before they realize what happened. “Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area,” Mellor said. “Also if you have a generator you should locate it away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors. Install carbon monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide. If the carbon monoxide alarm sounds, everyone needs to move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door. Contact emergency personnel to assist you immediately.” As the weather gets colder don’t forget about pets and farm animals. Pets and livestock need to be sheltered and have non-frozen drinking water during winter weather.


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