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WINTER WEATHER SAFETY TIPS

 

Winter Safety Tips edited

With the anticipated weather systems approaching, it is a good time to make winter preparations in your home and for your vehicle(s). We hope the following winter weather safety tips help you to be prepared.

Home preparedness tips:

  • Test all smoke alarms. Do this at least once a month. This way you will know they are working. Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home. Test the alarms.
  •  Plan two ways out of the home in case of an emergency.
  • Clear driveway and front walk of ice and snow. This will provide easy access to your home.
  •  Make sure your house number can be seen from the street. If you need help, first responders will be able to find you.
  •  Be ready in case the power goes out. Have flashlights on hand. Also have battery-powered lighting and fresh batteries.
  •  Stay aware of winter weather. Listen to the television or radio for updates.

Watch for bulletins online.

  • Check on your neighbors. Check on others who may need help.
  • Generators should be used outdoors. Keep them away from windows and doors. Do not run a generator inside your garage, even if the door is open.
  • Stay away from downed wires. Report any downed wires to authorities.
  • Be ready if the heat stops working. Use extra layers of clothes and blankets to stay warm. If you use an emergency heat source, follow manufacturer’s guidelines, and keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away.
  • Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room and turn them off when you go to bed.
  • Know where your gas meter is located and keep it clear.
  • Have your furnace inspected and serviced by a qualified professional.
  • Have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional. Not cleaning your chimney is the leading cause of chimney fires from built up creosote.
  • Have a covered metal container to dispose of cooled ashes. To obtain a free ash can, residents may fill out an application, available at the Fire District Administration Office, 866 Oriole Way, Incline Village. If the required criteria are met, an ash can will be provided. Please visit our website for more information on our Ash Can program.

Travel Tips (if you must travel):

  • Store emergency supplies in your car (blanket, change of clothes, flashlight, food, water).
  • Carry a charged cell phone.
  • Keep ice scraper/snow brush.
  • Keep gas tank full.
  • Check national weather service, state department of transportation or local media prior to travel.
  • Allow extra time and expect delays, road closures or detours.

If you are caught in winter storm and/or stranded:

  • Stay with your vehicle and wait for help.
  • Display a sign of trouble to let people know you need help.
  • Occasionally run the engine to keep it warm. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow to prevent deadly carbon monoxide fumes from entering the car.
  • If more than one person is in the car, take turns sleeping.
  • Layer clothing to trap body heat in order to keep warm.

Helpful Contact Phone Numbers/Websites:

IN AN EMERGENCY, CALL 911