With the National Weather Service predicting several feet of snow and strong gusting winds through the weekend, Burlington County Sheriff Jean Stanfield is urging residents to be prepared for the winter weather.
“There are several steps that each resident should take as we prepare for the first significant winter storm of the season,” said Sheriff Jean Stanfield. “As in any emergency, it’s important to have a plan and to go over the plan with your entire family so that everyone knows what to do.”
“Being prepared and staying informed are key in any emergency situation,” Stanfield added, “I urge all of our residents to sign up for Burlington County’s new Emergency Alert System on the County website, or to connect with the County via Facebook or Twitter for regular updates as the storm progresses.”
Following the three steps below can help to ensure that you and your family will be ready for whatever situations this winter brings.
Step 1: Have Supplies
– Have an Emergency Supply Kit which includes items like non-perishable food, water, a battery-powered radio, extra flashlights and extra batteries.
– In preparation for winter weather be sure to add:
– Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment.
– Rock salt or more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways.
– Sand to improve traction
– Adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.
Step 2: Have a Plan and Practice
– Make a Family Emergency Plan. Your family may not be together when a storm sets in, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency.
– You may also want to inquire about emergency plans at places where your family spends time: work, daycare and school. If no plans exist, consider volunteering to help create one.
– Practicing the plan can ensure that all members of the family understand it and help to keep everyone calm when it counts during an emergency
Step 3: Prepare Your Home and Car
– Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and windowsills to keep the warm air inside.
– Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing.
– Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).
– Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.
– Know ahead of time what you should do to help elderly or disabled friends, neighbors or employees.
– If you have a car, fill the gas tank in case you have to leave. In addition, check or have a mechanic check the following items on your car:
– Antifreeze levels — ensure they are sufficient to avoid freezing.
– Battery and ignition system — should be in top condition and battery terminals should be clean.
– Brakes — check for wear and fluid levels.
– Exhaust system — check for leaks and crimped pipes and repair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning.
– Fuel and air filters — replace and keep water out of the system by using additives and maintaining a full tank of gas.
– Heater and defroster — ensure they work properly.
– Lights and flashing hazard lights — check for serviceability.
– Oil — check for level and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well.
– Thermostat — ensure it works properly.
– Tires — make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions.
– Windshield wiper equipment — repair any problems and maintain proper washer fluid level.
