By KSN Chief Meteorologist Dave Freeman

In spite of Mother Nature's best attempts at camouflage, we know that moment by moment, day by day, we are drawing ever closer to winter. Even though November has maintained a clever disguise, masquerading as October for most of the month, the beginning of winter arrives on December 1.

(Yes, that's right--I said December 1st. The coldest three months of year in most locations in North America are December, January and February--by definition, winter. The winter solstice, on or near December 21, has absolutely nothing to do with the first day of winter. But, wait, that's another column...)

Back to winter and the fact it is upon us and we had better get ready! Just as we prepare for spring storms by getting our shelter ready with an emergency kit, we should take a few minutes and do the same now. But with winter, we have to prepare two shelters!

The first is, of course, your home. As Wichita and much of South Central Kansas were reminded last year, winter storms can take a heavy toll on the infrastructure that we take for granted--electricity, phones, water and even cell phones. So, it is very worthwhile to take a few minutes and put a winter storm emergency kit together in the house.

Here are a few tips that can make a life or death difference for you during a winter storm, courtesy of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

In your emergency kit for the house you should have: drinking water, canned food that does not require cooking, non-electric can opener, first aid kit, battery-powered radio and/or TV, flashlight and extra batteries. Put this kit where you can get to it easily, even in the dark. You might also want to include winter specific items such as rock salt, sand and a snow shovel.

As we learned again in the Ice Storm of '05, you should prepare for the possibility that you will need to stay in your home for several days after a winter storm. Make sure that you have sufficient heating fuel as well as emergency heating equipment in case electricity is cut off.

A word also about fire danger. During a winter storm, too many people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions. Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. If you use a kerosene heater, be sure to maintain proper ventilation to avoid a build-up of toxic fumes. Keep all heaters at least three feet from flammable objects such as clothing, draperies, etc. And remember to always refuel outside!

Your second emergency shelter is, all too often, the car. When a winter storm is approaching it is certainly best to avoid unnecessary travel. But, if you do find yourself stranded, a car emergency kit can make all the difference. Here is what you should include: shovel, windshield scraper, flashlight, battery powered radio, extra batteries, water, high energy snack food, extra hats and mittens, blanket, tow chain or rope, road salt and sand, booster cables, emergency flares and fluorescent distress flag. Remember you are always better off staying with your car if you are stranded out along a highway.

If you have to venture outside, dressing correctly can be a life-saver, too. What your mom told you is right on: dress in layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Wear a hat, mittens and sturdy, waterproof boots. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs from extremely cold air.

I hope that these tips will help you when winter storms strike. And to know when they will strike, trust your KSN WeatherLab Team to track winter storms! You know we'll be working hard to keep your family safe during the winter season, too.

Dave Freeman
KSN Chief Meteorologist
weatherlab@ksn.com