01/05/2025
Get your family and home storm ready!
We all know Richmond snow storms are either a bust or we get TONS of snow and ice. Either way, our first storm (and hopefully only) is headed this way and we want to provide some tips from the American Red Cross and the National Weather Service for you and your family to be prepared.
Plan to Stay Warm and Be Storm Ready
Stay warm indoors to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
Consider using an indoor thermometer or thermostat to monitor the temperature inside.
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, 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
Fill up your vehicles with gasoline
Make sure you are stocked up on:
Flashlight and extra batteries
Extra water and food that doesn’t require cooking or refrigeration
Extra prescription medicine
Baby items such as diapers and formula
First-aid supplies
Heating fuel
Fire extinguisher and smoke alarm (that has been recently tested to ensure working properly)
Extra pet food and warm shelter for pets
Plan to Stay Connected
Sign up for free emergency alerts from your local government.
Plan to monitor local weather and news.
Have a backup battery or a way to charge your cell phone.
Have a battery-powered radio to use during a power outage.
Understand the alerts you may receive:
A WATCH means Be Prepared!
A WARNING means Take Action!
Create a support team to help everyone stay safe in a disaster. Plan how you can help each other.
Stay Safe
Use care with space heaters and fireplaces to prevent fires. Keep anything that could catch fire at least 3 feet (1 meter) from the heat!
Avoid using candles because of the fire risk. Use battery-powered lights and flashlights instead.
Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide poisoning is common during power outages when people use other means to heat and cook. You can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Only use generators, grills, and camp stoves outdoors and away from windows.
Carbon monoxide kills. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak, get to fresh air right away – do not delay.
To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and home fires, never heat your home with a cooking oven or stove.
If you need to go outside, use extreme caution when driving or walking on ice.
Avoid damaged or fallen power lines. They can electrocute you.
Be aware of branches, trees, and ice that may fall.
Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Take frequent breaks and, if possible, work with a partner.
Use ice-melting products to keep your walkways safe.
Go to a public library, shopping mall, or warming center if your home becomes too cold.
Stay safe out there!
Source. HCA Virginia
