Happy New Year! Resolve to Be Ready in 2023

Protecting your family from disasters may not seem like a necessary New Year's resolution, but with a 2022 study showing that 66% of Americans don't feel fully prepared for natural disasters, it may be a great time to rethink the strategies you should have in place if the worst were to happen. The Virginia Department of Health has a great list to help you make sure you are fully prepared in 2023!

Don't Let a Winter Storm Take You By Suprise

At Home and Work 

Your primary concerns at home or work during a winter storm are loss of heat, power and telephone service and a shortage of supplies if storm conditions continue for more than a day. In either place, you should have available:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and portable radio to receive emergency information
• Extra food and water such as dried fruit, nuts, granola bars and other food requiring no cooking or refrigeration.
• Extra prescription medicine
• Baby items such as diapers and formula
• First-aid supplies
• Heating fuel: refuel before you are empty; fuel carriers may not reach you for days after a winter storm
• Emergency heat source: fireplace, wood stove or space heater properly ventilated to prevent a fire
• Fire extinguisher, smoke alarm; test smoke alarms monthly to ensure they work properly
• Extra pet food and warm shelter for pets
• Review generator safety: Never run a generator in an enclosed space
• Make sure your carbon monoxide detector is working correctly and that the outside vent is clear of leaves and debris. During or after the storm, make sure it is cleared of snow.
• Home fires are common each winter when trying to stay warm. Review ways to keep your home and loved ones safe.

In Vehicles

Getting caught in a winter weather event while traveling can quickly turn deadly without some basic supplies and winter survival skills in place. Make sure you have an emergency kit in the car and follow the tips from the National Weather Service for what to do if you are caught in a winter storm.

On the Farm, With Pets

• Move animals to sheltered areas or bring pets inside. Shelter belts, properly laid out and oriented, are better protection for cattle than confining shelters, such as sheds.
• Haul extra feed to nearby feeding areas.
• Have water available. Most animals die from dehydration in winter storms.
• Make sure pets have plenty of food and water and a warm shelter.

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