Preparing for a Winter Storm

Preparing for a Winter Storm:

Prepare your home by stocking up on non-perishable food and water that will last for at least three days. Be sure that you have alternative heating sources, like a fireplace or wood stove, and check that your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working. Get more fireplace and wood stove safety tips here.
Assemble a family emergency kit. Make a kit for your home and one for your car with essentials like a first-aid kit, medications, flashlights, extra batteries, warm clothing, non-perishable food and blankets. Get a full emergency supply kit checklist here.
Winterize your car: Get your car winterized, keep a full tank of gas, and include emergency supplies in your car emergency kit. Get more winter driving safety tips here.
Charge your devices. Keep mobile devices fully charged and have a portable charger on hand.
Be sure to check on your neighbors, especially the elderly or those with medical needs, to make sure they have adequate supplies and heat.
Consider getting a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio in order to receive emergency information. Follow the National Weather Service (NWS) for information on watches, warnings, and advisories.
Stay ready by receiving text alerts from MdReady. Signing up is easy. Text MdReady to 211-631.
If you cannot afford heating costs, contact the Maryland Department of Human Services for information on getting help to pay your heating and electric bills.

Stay warm! Wear layers of loose-fitting, insulated clothing. Protect your ears, face, hands, and feet. Limit your time outdoors and move to a warm location during breaks if you are working outside.
Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Never use generators, grills or gas stovetops indoors for heating. Only use generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas. Get more carbon monoxide safety tips here.
Avoid unnecessary travel. If you are stranded in your car, stay inside your vehicle and call for help.
Find and know the location of local community warming centers in case your home loses power and cannot be heated. Here is a local contact list to find a warming center location near you*
- (*For information about warming centers after hours or over the weekend, please call 301-334-1929 OR for an emergency call 911.)

Shared by Lori Peck, BS, MT, Public Health Emergency Planner at the Garrett County Health Department