Winter Weather Tips from the American Red Cross 

NEWTON, NJ January 9, 2009 — The American Red Cross has some good safety tips for this winter season, even if you’re not riding in a one-horse open sleigh or roasting chestnuts on an open fire. Snow and ice have already fallen throughout the county but it’s not too late to prepare for whatever Mother Nature may send our way. First, make sure you have an emergency preparedness kit. This should include, at a minimum:

• Water -- one gallon per person, per day for drinking and hygiene purposes

• Food that is non-perishable and easy-to-prepare

• Battery-powered or hand crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)

• Flashlight and extra batteries

• First aid kit, medications and medical items

• Manual can opener

• Extra blankets and warm clothing, including boots, mittens and a hat for all household members

• Non-clumping kitty litter to make walkways and steps less slippery

If a winter storm WATCH is issued in your area, it means a winter storm is possible. Pay attention to updates from local radio and TV stations, and avoid any unnecessary travel.

If a winter storm WARNING is issued, it means a winter storm is headed for your area. Stay indoors during the storm if possible. If you must go outside, several layers of lightweight clothing will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Gloves (or mittens) and a hat will prevent loss of body heat.

A blizzard WARNING means strong winds, blinding wind-driven snow and dangerous wind chill are expected. Seek shelter immediately!

Driving Safety
Avoid traveling by car in a storm, but if you must, make sure you have an emergency preparedness kit in the trunk. Keep your car's gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing. Let someone know your destination, your route and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.

If you do get stuck . . .

• Stay with your car. Do not try to walk to safety.

• Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.

• Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won't back up in the car.

• Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running so that you can be seen.

• As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to keep blood circulating and to stay warm.

• Keep one window away from the blowing wind slightly open to let in air.

Ninety-six percent of Americans agree that it is important to prepare for a disaster, but only seven percent have taken the necessary steps to do so according to recent American Red Cross polling*. The Sussex County Chapter of the American Red Cross is encouraging residents of Sussex County to take three simple actions to get “Red Cross Ready” for disasters and other emergencies: 1) Get a kit, 2) Make a plan and 3) Be informed.

“Taking these basic preparedness actions can better prepare you for a variety of disasters from a power outage to a hurricane,” said Executive Director, Pat Day, who invites everyone to join the American Red Cross in their mission of getting better prepared.

The American Red Cross offers a free emergency preparedness training program, “Be Red Cross Ready”. This one hour program can be presented at your school, place of worship, office or club meeting location. Contact the Red Cross in Sussex County today at 973-579-1600 to schedule your presentation!

Visit www.sussexredcross.org for information regarding the Sussex County Chapter upcoming events, First Aid and CPR Training classes, and other information. The American Red Cross is a non-profit organization that shelters, feeds and counsels victims of disasters; provides nearly half of the nation's blood supply; teaches lifesaving skills; and supports military members and their families. The American Red Cross is a non-profit organization, not a government agency, and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its humanitarian mission.