Winter weather safety and preparedness tips

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Winter weather safety and preparedness tips

By Kevin White

At home and at work you should have some basic supplies on hand so that if a winter storm strikes, you can get along without some modern conveniences such as power and phone service.

Here are some things you should make sure to have ready at home:

  • Flashlight and extra batteries.
  • Battery-powered TV to tune to KSN for the latest WeatherLab forecast and an NOAA weather radio.
  • Extra food and water. High energy food, such as dried fruit or candy, and food requiring no cooking or refrigeration is best.
  • Extra medicine (especially prescriptions) and baby items.
  • First-aid supplies.
  • Heating fuel.
  • Emergency heating source, such as a fireplace, wood stove, space heater, etc., that is especially designed for INDOOR USE.
    • Learn to use properly to prevent a fire.
    • Have proper ventilation. Carbon monoxide is a killer!
    • Do NOT use heating devices designed for outdoor use!
  • Fire extinguisher and smoke detector.
  • Test units regularly to ensure they are working properly.
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In cars and trucks you are vulnerable to being caught out in the open. You must plan your travel carefully and check the latest KSN WeatherLab forecast to avoid the storm!

Here are some key things to prepare for winter travel:

  • Fully check and winterize your vehicle before the winter season begins.
  • Carry a WINTER STORM SURVIVAL KIT:
    • blankets/sleeping bags;
    • flashlight with extra batteries;
    • first-aid kit;
    • knife or scissors;
    • high-calorie, non-perishable food;
    • extra clothing to keep dry;
    • a large empty can and plastic cover with tissues and paper towels for sanitary purposes;
    • a smaller can and water-proof matches to melt snow for drinking water;
    • sack of sand (or cat litter);
    • shovel;
    • booster cables;
    • water container;
    • compass and road maps.
  • Keep your gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
  • Try not to travel alone.
  • Let someone know your timetable and primary and alternate routes.

Remember, the KSN WeatherLab Team has the largest and most experienced team of TV meteorologists in Kansas to track fast moving, fast changing winter storms!

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