STAYING SAFE DURING WINTER WEATHER EMERGENCIES Franklyn Michelin
Intro Winter weather can sometimes be the most unpredictable. To help mitigate unexpected emergencies, you can prepare by having a plan in place before the storm arrives. Here are some tips to help you manage weatherrelated emergencies.
Dress in layers.
You don’t want to be caught off guard in the cold if you suddenly lose heat in your home. Before the storm arrives, gather coats, blankets, and sleeping bags. Wear thermal underwear, or whatever you have on hand that is similar, under your sweater and pants. Dress in as many layers as you can tolerate without causing too much constriction.
Have Candles Ready to Go Candles can become a nightmare when you are cold and trying to set them up in the dark. Have them ready in the places that they are going to be needed. Know where your matches or lighters are. Place the candles in heavy containers to not risk being toppled over; however, if possible, try to keep flashlights on hand in case.
Insulate and Seal
Cold wind can enter your house through gaps and crevices. Just a small amount of outside air can significantly cool down the inside. Take precautions by insulating the bottom of doors and any gaps in windows with caulking and weather strips. If you do not have any on hand, you can place rolled-up towels under doors or force plastic bags through tiny crevices. Closing the blinds and curtains will also help to retain indoor heat.
Stock Up in Supplies
Try to have at least two weeks of supplies on hand. There is a possibility it could take the city or town weeks to get utilities back to normal again. For example, each person needs about a gallon of drinking water a day. So if there are three people in the household, you would need 42 gallons of water to last two weeks. You should stock up on non-perishable foods as well. Vehicles should have a full tank of gas due to gas stations potentially being closed for a while after the storm has passed.
Keep an Emergency Supply Kit Another essential is having an emergency supply kit filled with heating packs and basic first-aid supplies for both your home and vehicle. Stay inside and avoid driving at all costs if possible. But if for some reason you must go, then you should also keep food, water, and blankets in the car in case you get stuck.
Thank You! FRANKLYN MICHELIN FRANKLYNMICHELIN.ORG
Camping Survival Tips Presentation