Preparing for Winter Weather
Now is the time to prepare. Emergencies can take many forms, from winter storms, wildfires and power outages to earthquakes and terrorism. Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are often at higher risk if they rely on others for care and support. Please check out our emergency preparedness care provider bulletin to learn who is at increased risk.
Prepare for a winter conditions, know storms can:
- Last a few hours or several days.
- Knock out heat, power and communication services which places older adults, young children and sick individuals at greater risk for harm or injury.
Tips on winter-storm readiness and other hazards are available from Ready.gov.
Winterize your vehicle. Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Some items to include:
- Jumper cables.
- Sand or cat litter (for tire traction).
- Warm clothes.
- An ice scraper.
Remember to keep the gas tank full and if possible, have a professional mechanic check your battery, anti-freeze and cooling system.
Know the difference between frostbite and hypothermia. Signs of frostbite include numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin and firm or waxy skin. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech or drowsiness. If you see signs of frostbite or hypothermia, act quickly and call 911.
Visit www.ready.gov/winter-weather for more information.
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