Prepare a Winter Storm Plan:

• Have extra blankets on hand.
  
• Ensure that each member of your household has a warm coat, gloves or mittens, hat and water-resistant boots.
  
• Watch WSAZ, go to WSAZ.com or the WSAZ smart phone App. for updated storm information.
  
• Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit Containing…
  
• First aid kit and essential medications.
  
• Battery-powered NOAA Weather radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.
  
• Canned food and can opener.
  
• Bottled water (at least one gallon of water per person per day to last at least 3 days).
  
• Extra warm clothing, including boots, mittens, and a hat.
  
• Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit for your car, too.
  
• Have your car winterized before winter storm season.

When a Winter Storm WATCH is Issued:

• Watch WSAZ, go to WSAZ.com or the WSAZ smart phone App. for updated storm information.
  
• Be alert to changing weather conditions.
  
• Avoid unnecessary travel.

When a Winter Storm WARNING is Issued:

• Stay indoors during the storm.
  
• If you must go outside, several layers of lightweight clothing will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Gloves (or mittens) and a hat will prevent loss of body heat. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs.
  
• Understand the hazards of wind chill, which combines the cooling effect of wind and cold temperatures on exposed skin. As the wind increases, heat is carried away from a person's body at an accelerated rated, driving down the body temperature.
  
• Walk carefully on snowy, icy, sidewalks.

If You Do Get Stuck While Driving:

• Stay with your car. Do not try to walk to safety.
  
• Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.
  
• Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won't back up in the car.
  
• Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running so that you can be seen.
  
• As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to keep blood circulating and to stay warm.
  
• Keep one window away from the blowing wind slightly open to let in fresh air.

What to Do After a Winter Storm:

• Continue listening to WSAZ, clicking on WSAZ.com or the WSAZ smart phone App. for updated information and instructions.
  
• Access may be limited to some parts of the community, or roads may be blocked.
  
• 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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