The Angel Fire Fire Department

Winter Weather Tips

Prepare by Taking Protective Measures:

We would like people to be aware of some simple steps they need to take in the event we have a severe winter storm.  One of the most important steps is to know your 911 number street address and directions to your house especially the closest cross street and in the event of an emergency give this to the dispatcher.  History has a tendency to repeat it self back in 1989 Northern New Mexico received record amounts of snow.  Emergency services were cut off, roads closed for several days and people were stranded in their own homes.  We are just asking that people be aware it can happen again.  There are some simple things that you and your family can do to make sure you stay safe and comfortable during this period when all services are cut off. 

The following should be included in your disaster supplies kit for your home:

·        Extra batteries for flashlights and radio’s
·        Extra drinking water 1 gallon per person per day
·        Sufficient supply of canned food or dry goods
·        First aid kit
·        Sufficient amount of prescription medicine
·        Tool Box (screwdriver, pliers, crescent wrench, etc.)
·        Fire Extinguisher (give a good shake for about a minute each change of season)
·        Ample supplies for baby (formula, diapers, drinking water and meds)

 

For more information of supplying a larger kit for your home go to:

http://homebuying.about.com/cs/saferooms/a/disaster_kit.htm

 

Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic.

Prepare for possible isolation in your home by having sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off. For example, store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.  If you know a major storm is coming go out and check your propane tank and call the gas company immediately if you need fuel.

Be aware of the silent killer of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.  Have your heating system checked at the beginning of every winter season by a qualified, insured technician.    If you suspect CO poisoning open windows and doors immediately and call 911.  CO is a silent killer you can’t smell it or see it.  Be prepared to have to wait during winter months for emergency services to arrive especially if there is deep snow or blizzard type conditions.

 

To winterize your car, attend to the following:

• Battery and ignition system should be in top condition and battery terminals clean.
• Ensure antifreeze levels are sufficient to avoid freezing.
• Ensure the heater and defroster work properly.
• Ensure the thermostat works properly.
• Check lights and flashing hazard lights for serviceability.
• Check for leaks and crimped pipes in the exhaust system; repair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning.
• Check breaks for wear and fluid levels.
• Consider snow tires, snow tires with studs, or chains.
• Replace fuel and air filters. Keep water out of the system by using additives and maintaining a full tank of gas.

Dress for the Weather

• Wear several layers of loose fitting, lightweight warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.
• Wear mittens, which are warmer than gloves.
• Always wear a hat.
• Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.

During a Winter Storm

The following are guidelines for what you should do during a winter storm or under conditions of extreme cold:

• Listen to your radio, television, or NOAA Weather Radio for weather reports and emergency information.
• Eat regularly and drink ample fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack—a major cause of death in the winter. If you must shovel snow, stretch before going outside.
• Watch for signs of frostbite. These include loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately.
• Watch for signs of hypothermia. These include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness, and apparent exhaustion. If symptoms of hypothermia are detected, get the victim to a warm location, remove wet clothing, warm the center of the body first, and give warm, non-alcoholic beverages if the victim is conscious. Get medical help as soon as possible.
• Conserve fuel, if necessary, by keeping your residence cooler than normal. Temporarily close off heat to some rooms.
• Maintain ventilation when using kerosene heaters to avoid build-up of toxic fumes. Refuel kerosene heaters outside and keep them at least three feet from flammable objects.
• Drive only if it is absolutely necessary. If you must drive, consider the following:
• Travel in the day, don’t travel alone, and keep others informed of your schedule
• Stay on main roads; avoid back road shortcuts

If a blizzard traps you in the car, keep these guidelines in mind:

• Pull off the highway. Turn on hazard lights and hang a distress flag from the radio antenna or window.
• Remain in your vehicle where rescuers are most likely to find you. Do not set out on foot unless you can see a building close by where you know you can take shelter. Be careful; distances are distorted by blowing snow. A building may seem close, but be too far to walk to in deep snow.
• Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. When the engine is running, open an upwind window slightly for ventilation. This will protect you from possible carbon monoxide poisoning. Periodically clear snow from the exhaust pipe.
• Exercise to maintain body heat, but avoid overexertion. In extreme cold, use road maps, seat covers, and floor mats for insulation. Huddle with passengers and use your coat for a blanket.
• Take turns sleeping. One person should be awake at all times to look for rescue crews.
• Drink fluids to avoid dehydration.
• Be careful not to waste battery power. Balance electrical energy needs - the use of lights, heat, and radio - with supply.
• Turn on the inside light at night so work crews or rescuers can see you.
• If stranded in a remote area, stomp large block letters in an open area spelling out HELP or SOS and line with rocks or tree limbs to attract the attention of rescue personnel who may be surveying the area by airplane.
• Leave the car and proceed on foot - if necessary - once the blizzard passes

**Information from WWW.FEMA.GOV**