City of Joplin reminds residents to prepare for icy weather

(From the City of Joplin)

With the forecast listing winter precipitation for the next few days, there are several precautions citizens can take in preparation for this bitter cold spell. One of the primary concerns is the winter weather's ability to knock out heat, power and communications services to your home or office, sometimes for days at a time. Ice, heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region.

The National Weather Service refers to winter storms as the “Deceptive Killers” because most deaths are indirectly related to the storm. Instead, people die in traffic accidents on icy roads and of hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold. It is important to be prepared for winter weather before it strikes.

Before winter storms approach, prepare yourself and add the following supplies to your home’s emergency kit:

· Rock salt or more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways. Visit the Environmental Protection Agency for a complete list of recommended products.

· Sand to improve traction.

· Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment.

· Sufficient heating fuel. You may become isolated in your home and regular fuel sources may be cut off. Store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.

· Adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.

Other preparations to consider before getting caught off guard by Mother Nature:

· Make a Family Communications Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency.

· If using a portable generator, DO NOT bring it inside of your home or garage due to carbon monoxide poisoning risks. Keep the generator outside.

· Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS). Be alert to changing weather conditions.

· Minimize travel. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle.

· Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen drinking water.

Additional information may be found under Emergency Management at City’s website: www.JoplinMo.org or by clicking the link below.

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