Photo: American Red Cross
A major Winter Storm is on its way to the Roanoke and Lynchburg areas this weekend bringing heavy snow turning over to sleet and freezing rain, which could mean power outages.
The American Red Cross has a list of ways for you and your family to prepare beforehand so you can stay safe:
What Should You Do Before a Winter Storm?
Plan to Stay Warm
- Stay warm indoors to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
- Plan to check on loved ones and neighbors to make sure they are staying warm. This is especially important for older adults and babies.
- Drink plenty of warm fluids but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
- Avoid travel if you can.
- If you must go outside, plan to dress properly. Keep your nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes covered in warm, dry clothing. These areas are the first to be at risk for frostbite.
- Wear layers of loose clothing, a coat, a hat, mittens, and water-resistant boots. Use a scarf to cover your face and mouth.
- Know where you will go if your home becomes too cold. You could go to a friend’s house, a public library, or a warming center.
Gather Emergency Supplies
- Gather food, water, and medicine before a winter storm. Stores might be closed, and it may be unsafe to travel.
- Organize supplies into a Go-Kit and a Stay-at-Home Kit.
- Go-Kit: at least three days of supplies you can carry with you if you need to go somewhere else to stay warm. Include critical backup batteries and chargers for your devices (cell phone, CPAP, wheelchair, etc.)
- Stay-at-Home Kit: at least two weeks of supplies.
- Ensure you have enough warm clothing, such as hats, mittens, and blankets, for everyone in your household.
- You may lose access to drinking water. Set aside at least one gallon of drinking water per person per day.
- Consider keeping emergency supplies in your vehicle, such as a blanket, warm clothing, a first-aid kit, and boots.
- Have a 1-month supply of needed medications and medical supplies. Consider keeping a list of your medications and dosages on a small card to carry with you.
- Keep personal, financial, and medical records safe and easily accessible (in hard copies or securely backed up).
- Have a snow shovel and ice-melting products to keep your walkways safe.
Stay Informed
- Download the Red Cross Emergency! App to stay up to date on alerts and locate shelters if needed. (Additional information/instructions attached.)
- Know how your community gets information out. Sign up for alerts, follow Facebook pages, etc.
Learn more at RedCross.org.
And keep up-to-date on weather and road information plus closings and cancelations at our iHeartRadio Roanoke/Lynchburg STORM CENTER.
If you lose power, you can always listen to us on the FREE new & improved iHeartRadio app!