FEMA Issues Winter Weather Recommendations
Release Date: January 3, 2002
Release Number: HQ-02-002
Washington, D.C., January 3, 2002 -- In many areas of the country, winters bring heavy snowfall and extremely cold temperatures. Heavy snow can make roads dangerous for drivers, and bring power outages and other inconveniences. Cold temperatures can also be dangerous, especially to the very young and the elderly.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends that families be prepared for winter storms and know safe driving tips. Already one area of the U.S. - upstate New York - has been hit with winter weather so severe it warranted a federal emergency declaration. Recent winter storms in the Southeast further reinforce the need for all Americans to be prepared.
"Winter brings special challenges to many parts of the country," said FEMA Director Joe M. Allbaugh. "But with pre-planning and an understanding of cold weather and winter driving we can help save lives and property, and make the winter easier to take."
FEMA makes these winter weather recommendations:
- Have an emergency supply kit on hand stocked with: a battery-powered radio with extra batteries; extra food that doesn't need cooking (like canned food); rock salt to melt ice and sand to improve traction; flashlights and battery-powered lamps for power failures; and wood for fireplaces. FEMA recommends that candles NEVER be used for illumination in a power outage.
- If you go out in very cold weather, dress in several layers of clothing. Mittens are warmer than gloves, and you should wear a hat and cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs from the cold air. Know the signs of, and watch for, frostbite.
- If you get trapped in your car during a blizzard, set your lights on flash and hang a piece of cloth or distress flag from the radio antennae or window. Then get back in and stay in the car! Do not go out on foot unless you can see a building nearby. Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes out of each hour. When the engine is running, open a window slightly to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning. You may need to clear snow away from the car's exhaust pipe. Use road maps, seat covers and floor mats for warmth, and huddle with the other passengers. Take turns sleeping so one person is always awake when rescuers come. If you are stranded in a remote area you may need to leave the car on foot after the blizzard passes.
- Put important supplies in your car before bad weather strikes, including blankets and warm clothing, booster cables and tools, bottled water, dried fruits and nuts, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, flashlights and batteries, traction mats or chains, a shovel and ice scrapers.
- Natural disasters can play havoc with power lines and telephone poles. Be aware of your changed environment and STAY AWAY from downed power lines whether you are walking or driving.
- Sometimes severe winter weather is followed by serious flooding. Never try to drive through water on a road. Water can be deeper than it seems and water levels can rise very quickly. A car can be lifted up by floodwaters and float out of control. Wade through floodwaters only if the water is not flowing rapidly and only in water no higher than your knees. If the car stalls in floodwater, get out quickly and move to higher ground.
Last Modified: Friday, 22-Aug-2003 16:45:12