ALBANY >> With a major snowstorm bearing down on the Northeast, the American Red Cross on Monday urged residents to be prepared – not only for the snow, but for cold temperatures and possible power outages.
Here are some the safety tips from the Red Cross.
* Assemble an emergency preparedness kit: Pack a winter-specific supply kit that includes a warm coat, hat, mittens or gloves, and water-resistant boots, along with extra blankets and warm clothing. Additionally, make sure you have a first aid kit and essential medications, canned food and can opener, bottled water, flashlights and a battery-powered radio with extra batteries in your home in the event of a power outage.
* Heed storm warnings: A winter storm watch means winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions via NOAA Weather radio, or local radio or television stations. A winter storm warning means that life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. Individuals in a warning area should take precautions immediately.
* Stay safe on the road: Avoid driving when conditions include sleet, freezing rain, snow or dense fog. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supply kit in your vehicle. Winterize your car and keep the gas tank full to help keep the fuel line from freezing.
* Protect yourself from cold temperatures: Stay indoors, if possible, during periods of extreme cold. Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in several layers if you must go outside. Before tackling strenuous tasks in cold temperatures, consider your physical condition, the weather factors and the nature of the task. When shoveling snow, take frequent breaks to avoid risk of injury or cardiac arrest.
* Heat your home safely: Never use a cooking range or oven to heat your home. If you use a space heater, place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface (such as ceramic tile floor), not on rugs or carpets or near bedding or drapes. Never leave portable heaters or fireplaces unattended. Turn off space heaters and make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before going to bed or leaving home.
* Practice caution during power outages: In the event of a power outage, be careful to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock or fire when using alternate sources of electricity or heat. Never use a generator or other gas-burning device inside a home, garage, basement, or any partially enclosed area. Turn off or disconnect any appliances or electronics you were using when the power went out. Keep a flashlight and batteries handy and do not use candles for light due to the extreme risk of fire.
For more information about winter storm safety and other emergency preparedness tips, go to www.redcross.org/prepare.
