Winter Weather Awareness Week - Be Prepared!

​​​​​​​​​​​Winter storms create a higher risk of power outages, car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion in the cold. During West Virginia's Winter Weather Awareness Week (Nov. 13-17,2023), we want to encourage everyone to get prepared​ BEFORE winter hazards arise. 

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter​!  #Winter ​​#WVwx #BePrepared 

See where the Governor Declares ​Winter Awareness Week​

PREPARE NOW

• Prepare for Power Outages - pre-identify an alternate source of power for heat, medical equipment and other needs. Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.
• Winterize Your Home - prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping.
• Keep pipes from freezing - Insulate pipes, attic, basement, and crawl spaces. Keep the heat set to no lower than 55° F, even if you are away. When a cold snap hits, open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Learn more.
• Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
• Check for WV Weather Alerts & Warnings. Follow your local weather forecast to be prepared for freezing and winter storms. Sign up for your community's warning system. 
• Gather Emergency Supplies - in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights. Keep in mind each person's specific needs, including medication. Don't forget your Pet's Needs.
• ​Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks. Keep the gas tank full. 
• Check ROAD CONDITIONS before you travel - see wv511.org​ follow them @WV511
  

If you are under a winter storm warning:  

• Find shelter right away. To find a Warming Center, call 211. 
  
• Stay off roads.
• Report POWER OUTAGE - see contacts at WVEMD site 
  
• Use generators outside only.
  
• Stay indoors and dress warmly.
• Listen for emergency information and alerts.
• Prepare for power outages.
  
• Look for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.
  
• Reduce the risk of a heart attack. Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow.
• Check on neighbors.
  

Learn about Frostbite & Hypothermia

Frostbite Signs: Loss of feeling and color around the face, fingers, and toes. Numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, and firm or waxy skin.

Frostbite Treatment: Go to a warm room. Soak in warm water. Use body heat to warm. Do not massage or use a heating pad.

Hypothermia signs: unusually low body temperature. A temperature below 95 degrees is an emergency. Shivering, Exhaustion, Confusion, Fumbling hands, Memory loss, Slurred speech, and drowsiness. Treatment: CALL 911!  Learn more at CDC

For more information on Winter Preparedness and Safety, see:

• Ready.gov
• National Weather Service also see their Winter Weather Week page
  
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• Pets (ASPCA)
• Health (CDC)
  
• WV EMD Winter Preparedness 
  
• See WWV Road Conditions at WV511.org​
  

Learn to be a Winter Weather Spotter! ​

JOIN the Winter Weather Spotter Webinar on Thursday November 16, 2023, from 6:30pm to 8:00 pm. Learn about winter weather forecasting, the science of winter storms, and practical tips for staying safe. The Charleston Office of the National Weather Service will conduct this virtual workshop. Don't miss out - Sign up to​p attend!

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