Winter Preparedness
Winter can be a beautiful time of the year, however if not properly prepared you may find yourself in an uncomfortable situation or worse putting you or your loved ones in a dangerous situation. Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during a winter storm.
The first step everyone should take to prepare for Winter Weather is to create or purchase two emergency kits. One for your home and one for your vehicle.
When assembling a Home Emergency Kit, base the contents of your kit on what you and your family will need during an extended power outage or not being able to leave your home due to severe weather conditions. You will likely have all sorts of things in your home right now that would serve you well in an emergency, with a few additions and some organization, you'll have a functional kit that meets you and your family's needs. Here are a few websites with lists of recommended Home Emergency Supply Kit contents:
Emergency Kits
The first step everyone should take to prepare for Winter Weather is to create or purchase two emergency kits. One for your home and one for your vehicle.
When assembling a Home Emergency Kit, base the contents of your kit on what you and your family will need during an extended power outage or not being able to leave your home due to severe weather conditions. You will likely have all sorts of things in your home right now that would serve you well in an emergency, with a few additions and some organization, you'll have a functional kit that meets you and your family's needs. Here are a few websites with lists of recommended Home Emergency Supply Kit contents:
Car Emergency Kits
Everyone should carry a Winter Emergency Kit for their car, it could save your life and the life of your passengers. Getting caught unprepared in the winter can mean the difference between life and death. Emergency assistance delays happen during periods of extreme weather, and rescue may take hours. When assembling a Winter Emergency Kit expect the worst weather conditions. Here are a few websites with supply lists to get you started:
Check the Weather
Before making plans or leaving the house, be sure to check the weather for the entire route and duration of your trip. You should also allow extra time for each trip. The current and forecast weather can be accessed from numerous media outlets. Here are a few weather forecast sites:
Check the Road Conditions
Just because the weather forecast is for clear weather where you start and at your destination, there still may be hazardous driving conditions on your planned route. These links will assist you when driving in California:
Personal Responsibility
It's Your Responsibility
There are many resources available to assist you in your winter emergency planning, the only limitation is your motivation to prepare prior to a winter event. Here are additional brochures and websites not listed above to assist you in your planning:
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