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During the Storm
Keeping track of changing weather conditions is a smart way to stay safe during a storm. This will help you know exactly when to evacuate or find shelter, ensuring your protection and peace of mind.
Weather Alerts and Resources
Most newer cell phones receive automatic weather alerts through the Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) system. The National Weather Service, FEMA and local agencies use this service to warn of emergencies. The location of your cellular device determines what alerts you will receive. If you are away from home and visiting an area receiving an alert, you will also receive it as the WEA system uses cell towers to ping mobile devices in the impacted area.
weather.gov
Weather alerts from the WEA system are short and provide minimal detail regarding the changing conditions. Many counties use AlertSense and other apps to provide residents with additional information (such as road closures or evacuation orders) about emergency conditions. Check which notification system your county uses and sign up for alerts.
If you are driving during the winter months, you might encounter road closures and other dangerous conditions. Map and navigation apps like Apple Maps, Google Maps and Waze provide real-time information about weather conditions, road closures and other safety alerts that might impact travel. Ultimately, it's wise to avoid driving if bad weather whenever possible, ensuring your safety and keeping roads clear for emergency services.
Know the warning signs: Whether you’re watching a weather report on the news or receiving an alert via a text messaging system, it's good to know what common phrases mean so you can act appropriately.
Winter Storm/Ice Storm/Blizzard Watch: These are issued before a storm and often indicate the likelihood that the event will impact the area. A watch gives people time to prepare or evacuate if necessary.
Winter Weather/Freezing Rain Advisory: An advisory is a higher alert than a watch, indicating that the weather event is occurring or will likely occur.
Winter Storm/Ice Storm/Blizzard Warning: This highest alert level warns of heavy snowfall, ice accumulation, and blizzard conditions. These weather threats endanger life and property, so those in the storm's path should take protective actions.
Personal Safety Measures
Whether you're in a winter storm-prone area or traveling during the season, it's important to be prepared.
Clothing: Staying warm and dry during a winter storm is crucial for your safety. Wet clothing can lower your core temperature, posing a risk of hypothermia. Consider these tips when selecting winter clothing:
Moisture-wicking fabrics keep you dry and help maintain your core temperature.
Layering with thermal wear allows you to adjust clothing to prevent overheating and sweating.
Think about to your extremities—insulated boots, waterproof gloves and hats are just as important as warm sweaters and pants.
Emergency blankets and chemical hand warmers are good to keep in your vehicle in case you get stranded in your car during bad winter weather.
Home Heating Safety: If your heater goes out during a storm, you can be in a dangerous situation. It is prudent to have your heater inspected before the winter season begins so that any repairs can be made before they become an emergency. This is also a good time to ensure your smoke and carbon dioxide detectors are in proper working order.
Space heaters can pose serious safety risks if not used properly. If you must use space heaters, keep them away from anything flammable and never leave them unattended. Have backup heating sources available in case your electricity goes out. These can include wood stoves or fireplaces with sufficient wood available. Keep matches or a lighter somewhere where they will stay dry, and you can easily find them.
Test generators and equipment in advance and ensure you have enough fuel/gasoline to last for a few days in case your power is down.
Health Precautions: It can be easy to get into a dangerous situation during winter weather if you overexert yourself by clearing heavy snow or removing ice dams from your roof. Take breaks and don't hesitate to ask friends or neighbors for a helping hand.
It's also important to watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia, especially if you work outside during cold weather. Hypothermia can start with excessive shivering, cold or pale skin, exhaustion and confusion. Keep an eye out for these early signs Frostbite often begins with numbness, pale skin and tingling in the extremities. If you notice these early signs of frostbite or hypothermia, it is important to stop what you are doing and find a way to warm up, if possible.
This information is being provided for general informational purposes only. The Auto Club Group does not assume any liability in connection with providing this information.
