The occurrence of large snowstorms and ice storms can have a substantial impact on communities, utilities, and transportation systems, often resulting in the loss of life due to accidents and hypothermia. Heavily populated areas are at high risk because the severe weather can cause communication and power lines to go down.
While snowstorms are not frequent in Dyersburg, ice storms create dangerous driving conditions, may freeze pipes, and down power lines. There are many precautions you can take to ensure that you will have a safe and warm winter season.
To Prepare Before the Storm
Prepare your 72 Hour Kit for the winter storm event. Make sure that you have a three day supply of food and water for each person in your house, extra blankets, first aid kit, flashlights and batteries, a battery-operated radio, baby formula, and medications.
Have an emergency heat source available, such as a fireplace, space heater, or wood burning stove. Take the time to learn how to properly use the heating source and follow these tips:
Use the heating source properly to prevent fires. Do not use charcoal-burning devices.
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case a fire accident occurs. Ventilate the area properly.
Have operating carbon monoxide and smoke detectors nearby.
Winterize your home by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic.
Clear rain gutters, repair roof leaks, and cut away tree branches that could fall on your house or vehicle if they became over-weighted by snow or ice.
Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic. Allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing.
Perform a checkup on your vehicle to make sure that all systems are working properly and all fluids are topped off. Maintain at least a half tank of gas during the winter season.
Keep a winter emergency kit in each vehicle.
Bring pets indoors and make sure they have plenty of food and water.
During a Winter Storm
Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Remove layers as needed to avoid overheating, perspiration, and subsequent chill.
Avoid travel unless it is absolutely necessary. If you must travel, use extra caution when driving. Maintain lower speeds and keep plenty of distance between yourself and the next vehicle. Use extreme caution on bridges, overpasses, and elevated highways where ice forms rapidly.
Keep in mind that the roads may still be icy even though you may not see the accumulation of ice or snow. Remember that even 4-wheel drive vehicles will have difficulty driving on icy roads.
Stay tuned in to local media for hazard conditions, school and business closings, and recovery information.
