Winter Weather Preparedness
With the winter season around the corner, we should be thinking of preparing ourselves for the winter weather. Here are some tips and information.
Facts on winter weather:
- People die in traffic accidents on icy roads
- People die of heart attacks while shoveling snow
- People die of hypothermia from prolonged exposure to the cold
FEMA and local officials advise all residents and their guest in the following preparedness tips.
- Keep extra blankets on hand both at home and in your vehicle
- Check battery powered equipment as well as your car battery.
- Winterize your car, keep the fuel tank at full.
- Keep extra batteries and flashlights on hand.
- If you have propane or oil heat, check your fuel supply
- Dress appropriately, dress in layers
- Wearing a hat prevents the loss of half your body hear
- Gloves and warm socks help protect fingers and toes, which is where you can first feel the effects of cold temperatures.
- Use three (3) essential layers of clothing;
- Underwear: chose long underwear, or thin, snug-fitting pants with a long sleeve shirt or turtleneck.
- Insulation: Sweaters, sweatshirts, and other similar garments are good insulators.
- Outer Shell: Choose garments that are windproof, and preferably waterproof. Good fit is crucial.
- Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat. Keep the body replenished with fluids (water and juice limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol) to prevent dehydration.
Tune into NOAA radio, television and radio.
Some of the weather terms:
Blizzard Warning: Issued when snow and strong winds will combine to produce blinding snow, deep snow drifts, and life-threatening wind chill.
Wind Chill: What the temperature feels like to the human body based on both air temperature and wind speed.
Wind Chill Advisory: Issued when potentially dangerous wind chill readings (-20 to -34 degrees Fahrenheit) are expected.
Wind Chill Watch: Issued when life-threatening wind chill reading (-35 degrees Fahrenheit or lower) are possible.
Wind Chill Warning: Issued when wind chill readings (-35 degrees Fahrenheit or lower) are expected to be life-threatening.
Winter Weather Advisory: Issued when winter conditions (snow, sleet, and or freezing rain/ice) are expected to cause significant inconvenience and may be hazardous.
Winter Storm Watch: Issued when severe winter conditions (heavy snow and/ or significant freezing rain/ice) are possible within the next day or two.
Winter Storm Warning: Issued when severe winter conditions have begun or are about to begin in your area. Six (6) inches or more of snow and /or ice accumulations of ¼ inch or more.
Each and everyone should prepare an emergency ready kit. Information can be found at www.ready.gov
When dangerous or hazardous weather is approaching or have arrived keep tuned to local television and radio for up to the minute information. Below are some important websites:
Any questions you can always contact the Office of Emergency Management at 201-4401-1815 ext 165 or email EmergencyManagement@southhackensacknj.org.
Have a safe winter season and always be prepared.