Winter Storms
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Winter Storms Can Be Both Fun and Dangerous; Be Prepared!
Building snowmen in the yard, eating roasted marshmallows and sipping hot chocolate, snowball fights and sledding races... it's what winter weather is all about! But in order to enjoy the beautiful winter weather that our region is famous for, we must first prepare for its possible consequences.
Winter storms can include everything from a moderate snow lasting a few hours to a blinding blizzard that extends through several days. Winter storms are often accompanied by dangerously low temperatures, strong winds, ice, sleet and freezing rain. Consequently, a community may experience unsafe driving conditions, power outages, fallen trees or tree limbs, etc. In addition, individuals are at risk for hypothermia, frost bite and other cold-related emergencies if the proper precautions are not taken. 
We can not prevent winter storms but we can prepare for them and their consequences by stocking up on water in case of a power outage, educating ourselves on power outage safety, stocking our homes with sand or salt to make slippery walkways safe for family members, placing flashlights at easy to reach locations in the home, etc. For a complete list of winter safety and preparedness please visit the links below:
Winter Storm Safety Checklist
Are You Ready for a Winter Storm?
Preventing and Thawing Frozen Pipes
Power Outage Checklist
But what if the Storm has already hit? Follow our guidelines for recovering from a winter storm:
What to Do After a Winter Storm
- Continue listening to local radio or television stations or a NOAA Weather Radio for updated information and instructions. Access may be limited to some parts of the community, or roads may be blocked.
- Help a neighbor who may require special assistance--infants, elderly people, and people with disabilities. Elderly people and people with disabilities may require additional assistance. People who care for them or who have large families may need additional assistance in emergency situations.
- Avoid driving and other travel until conditions have improved. Roads may be blocked by snow or emergency vehicles.
- Avoid overexertion. Heart attacks from shoveling heavy snow are a leading cause of deaths during winter.
- Follow forecasts and be prepared when venturing outside. Major winter storms are often followed by even colder conditions.
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