Severe winter storms with high winds and drifting snow often occur with little warning. Follow these instructions:
Recognize current weather conditions and obtain forecasts.
Be prepared for isolation at home with necessary survival items.
Use lights for heat if the furnace goes out. Don't use gas stoves.
Prevent fire hazards due to overheated wood or oil burning stoves, fireplaces, or
electric heaters.
Stay indoors. Overexertion such as snow shoveling is a major cause of winter storm
deaths.
Dress in warm layers of clothes.
Travel only if necessary, and then only in daylight on major roads.
Do not travel alone. Let someone know your destination and schedule.
Travel in a convoy with another vehicle if possible.
If you are caught in a vehicle:
Do not panic.
Do not leave the vehicle unless help is in sight.
If stuck in snow, remain in car and run motor for 10 minutes of every hour for heat.
Ensure proper ventilation while running the engine.
Signal trouble by raising the hood, tying a cloth on the antenna, or turning on the
flashers.
Wear many layers of clothing to protect from the cold.
Don't burn anything in the vehicle.
Carry winter survival items: blanket, sleeping bags, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit,knife, high calorie/nonperishables food, extra clothing, large empty can with plastic cover and tissues, drinking water, sack of sand, shovel, windshield scraper and
brush, tool kit tow rope, and booster cables.
Keep a full tank of gas.
Don't travel alone and let someone know about your route and timetable.
Avoid overexertion and exposure.
Keep fresh air in your car.
Exercise by clapping hands and moving arms and legs vigorously from time to
time, and do not stay in one position for long.
Turn on the dome light at night to make the vehicle visible to work crews.
Keep watch. Do not permit all occupants of the car to sleep at once.