During a Winter Storm

  • Avoid driving and other travel until conditions have improved. Most roadways are still impassable and blocked by snow.
  • Listen to the television, or if the power goes out, a battery powered radio for updates on the weather and other storm-related information.
  • Check on elderly neighbors and relatives. The elderly are especially susceptible to hypothermia, even inside their homes and icy and slippery surfaces can cause dangerous falls for them.
  • Keep emergency supplies on hand, review our Disaster Supply Kit for more information.
  • Clear snow from decks. If you can safely shovel the snow from your deck, do so.
Staying Warm
  • Stay indoors and dress warmly during the storm.
  • Wear layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing will keep you warmer than one bulky sweater. Remove layers to avoid overheating, perspiration, and subsequent chill.
  • Keep an adequate supply of fuel in your home.
  • Have an alternate heat source such as a woodstove, fireplace, or space heater in case you lose power. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and make sure that they are in well ventilated areas to prevent carbon monoxide from building up.
  • Do not use candles. Candles can easily tip over or ignite nearby combustibles.
Fire Hydrants & Pipes
  • Take time to clear the snow away from the hydrants so that emergency personnel can find them quickly if needed.
  • Prevent pipes from freezing by wrapping them in pipe insulation.
  • During sustained cold periods, let each faucet drip a little to avoid freezing.
  • Be careful when shoveling snow, pushing a car, or other exertion. Cold weather puts a strain on the heart, even without exercise.
Storm Drains
  • As temperatures increase, the potential for flooding exists. Make sure that the snow is cleared from storm drains to prevent pooling and flooding that may result from melting snow.
Gas Meters & Vents
  • Another suggestion is to clear the snow from around the external natural gas meter installation in case your natural gas system needs service.
  • Please clear away the snow with your hands. 
  • Do not use a shovel because it could cause damage. If you have a high efficiency gas furnace or appliance that requires an outside air source, make sure the external air vent is clear of any snow to insure proper operation.