Be Prepared:

Terms:

Prepare:

• Make sure you have sufficient fuel for cars and generators.
• Weather-proof doors and windows to trap heat inside your home.
• Put warm supplies-such as gloves, blankets and hats-in your car in case you become stranded or extreme cold strikes while you are away from home.
• Make sure animals are indoors well before cold weather hits.
• Insulate pipes with newspaper or plastic to keep them from freezing.

Extreme Cold-Specific Items to Add to Preparedness Kit:

• Hat and Gloves
• Warm-Layered Clothes
• Portable Heater

Be Safe:

Signs:

• During the winter months
• Commonly accompany snow storms or blizzards

During:

• Be sure to eat regularly and drink fluids.
• Watch for frostbite. Signs include loss of feeling or pale appearance of fingers, toes, or face.
• Watch for hypothermia. Signs include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, drowsiness and exhaustion.
• If using a heater, make sure the area is well ventilated.
• If you must go outside, wear protective gear such as hats, mittens, and gloves in addition to a warm coat. Always protect your lungs with a scarf.
• Change out of wet clothing immediately.
• Wear several layers of loose fitting clothes.
• Allow water to drip from your faucets to reduce the chance that they will freeze.

After:

• Check on elderly and children for any signs of illness due to the cold weather.
• Refill any supplies used from your preparedness kit.

More Information/Additional Resources:

http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather