[Archived] Winter Preparedness Tips

City Press Release


	City of Alexandria, Virginia Office of the City Manager Alexandria City Hall 301 King Street, Suite 3500 Alexandria, Virginia 22314-3211 www.alexandriava.gov Telephone: 703.838.4300 Fax : 703.838.6343

Are you ready? The winter season has arrived and with it comes snow, ice, freezing rain, frigid temperatures and sometimes, power outages. Could you handle an unexpected emergency in your household? Be safe and ready for this winter season by following these winter preparedness tips:
• Store an emergency supply of water and nonperishable foods in your pantry.
• Keep a first-aid kit, battery-powered radio and fresh batteries, flashlight, manual can opener, extra prescription medications and baby supplies (diapers, etc.) at home.
• Maintain a supply of fuel for your home. Plan for an alternate supply of heat if you lose power, such as a wood stove, fireplace or space heater.
• A generator can be useful if you keep it outside in a well-ventilated area; connect it to the item you want to receive the power. Consult an electrician before connecting any generator to your home’s electrical system.
• Keep pipes from freezing by wrapping them in pipe insulation. During long cold periods, allow faucets to drip to keep pipes from freezing.
• Dress in several layers of light clothing to prevent hypothermia, instead of one heavy layer. Wear a hat when going outside.
• Check on your elderly or infirm neighbors and relatives.
• Clear walkways and sidewalks of snow and ice.
• Check your car’s condition or have a mechanic inspect - tire tread, battery, antifreeze, gas and windshield wiper fluids to ensure safe operation.
• Keep an emergency kit in your car that includes nonperishable food, windshield scraper, first-aid kit, blanket, sand or cat litter for traction, jumper cables, a tow chain and road map. Carry a wireless telephone with charged batteries.
• When stranded in a snowstorm, stay in the car unless you see a shelter or telephone close by. Use the car’s heater for short periods.
• In winter storms, stay home unless travel is absolutely necessary.
• Be careful when shoveling snow or pushing a car - cold weather strains the heart.
• Keep a supply of pet food, medications and other necessary items to care for your pets.

For more information, call Charlie McRorie, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, at 703.838.3825.