"In recent years we've experienced winter weather storms, including devastating ice storms and blizzards," Jerry Smith, Director, Canadian County Emergency Management said. "We all need to be aware of these natural threats we face in our community and take responsibility to make sure we are properly prepared when disaster strikes."
The office of Canadian County Emergency Management has joined with the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, the National Weather Service and other agencies to raise public awareness about what can be done to prepare for hazardous winter weather. Individuals or groups who would like to host a program to help become better prepared should call the Office of Canadian County Emergency Management at (405) 295-6186.
Winter Weather Preparedness
Have a Plan-Make a Kit-Stay Informed
Have A Plan:
Discuss with your family what to do if a winter storm watch or warning is issued.
Ensure your family knows meeting places and phone numbers of other family members in case they are separated when a winter storm hits.
Know what to do if basic services as water, gas, electricity or telephones are cut off for an extended period of time.
Understand the hazards of wind chill. Cold temperatures are even more dangerous, and potentially deadly, when combined with strong winds. The lower the temperature and stronger the wind, the more at risk you are.
Check on family, friends and neighbors, especially the elderly. Make sure they are prepared.
Plan to bring pets inside during winter weather. Move livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen drinking water.
Install and check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Let faucets drip to avoid freezing and know how to shut off water valves if necessary.
Have an alternate heating method such as fireplace or wood or coal burning stove. Always be cautious using a portable space heater.
Have your car winterized before winter storm season. Keep your gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.
Make sure your home is properly insulated. If necessary insulate walls and attic. Caulk and weather-strip doors and windowsills.
Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside.
To keep pipes from freezing, wrap them in insulation or layers of old newspapers. Cover the newspapers with plastic to keep out moisture.
Never heat a home with an oven if the electricity goes out.
