Check your local weather and road conditions before venturing out.

Arrange for emergency heat supply in case of power  failure.

Prepare auto, battery-powered equipment, food, heating fuel and other supplies.

Prepare a winter survival kit. Include the following items in your car kit: portable weather radio, batteries, blankets or sleeping bags, flares, high energy foods (candy, nuts, raisins), first aid kit, flashlights, extra clothing, knives, compass, candles and matches, maps, jumper cable, tow chain, shovel, windshield scraper, sack of sand, and paper and pen to leave a note in case you evacuate your car.

Your car will help you keep warm, visible and alive if you get trapped in a winter storm. A lit candle will help keep you from freezing, but remember to have a window open slightly for ventilation.

Keep car fuel tank above half full.

Dress warmly. Wear multiple layers of protective, loose fitting clothing, scarves, mittens and hoods. Cover your mouth and nose to protect lungs from extremely cold air.

Avoid travel. If you get stranded, stay in your vehicle and keep it ventilated. Bundle up, light a candle for warmth, occasionally change positions and don’t panic.

Avoid overexertion. Heart attacks are a major cause of death during and after winter storms. Shoveling snow or freeing stuck vehicles can be extremely hard work. Don’t overdo it!

Beware of the chill factor if winds are present.

Be prepared for isolation at home. Make sure you can survive for a week or two in case a storm isolates you and makes it impossible for you to leave.

Before planning an outing check the television, radio, weather radio, or internet forecast for your area.

Know the elevation of your property in relation to flood plains, streams and other waterways. Determine if your property may be flooded.

Plan what to do and where to go in case of a flood.

Store food, water and critical medical supplies.

Fill your car with gas in case you have to evacuate.

Move furniture and essential items to higher elevation, if time permits.

Have a portable radio and flashlights with extra batteries.

Open basement windows to equalize water pressure on foundations and walls.

Secure your home.

Consider flood and earthquake insurance.

Listen to your local weather radio, radio, or TV for weather information.

If a flash flood watch is issued be prepared to move to higher ground immediately.

If asked to evacuate, shut off main power switch, main gas valve and water valve.

 Follow local evacuation plan and routes.

Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road: it may be washed out. While on the road, watch for possible flooding of bridges, dips and low areas.

Watch out for damaged roads, slides and fallen wires.
Drive slowly in water; use low gear.

Abandon your vehicle immediately if it stalls and seek higher ground.

Do not attempt to cross a stream on foot where water is above your knees.

Register at your designated evacuation center and remain there until informed you may leave.

Remain away from evacuated area until public health officials and the building inspector have given approval.

Check for structural damage before entering.

Make sure electricity is off; watch for electrical wires.

Do not use open flame as a light source because of the possibility of escaping gas.

 Use flashlights. Beware of dangerous sparks.

Do not use food contaminated by flood water.

Test drinking water for suitability with test kits.

Avoid walking in flood water. Do not let children play in flood water.