Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Today, a heavy winter snow storm is expecting to hit home. Snow is expected to begin after 7:00am today. The heaviest period of snow is forecast for Wednesday afternoon through Wednesday night. Snow is expected to end early Thursday morning.

Snow accumulations of 12 to 16 inches currently predict in the 5 boroughs. High winds are also forecast, with sustained winds 20 mph to 30 mph, and gusts as high as 45 mph will cause areas of blowing and drifting snow.

Due to the inclement weather conditions : 

• Keep all potential sources of fuel like paper, clothing, bedding or rugs at least three feet away from space heaters, stoves, or fireplaces. 
• Portable heaters and fireplaces should never be left unattended. Turn off space heaters and make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before going to bed or leaving home.
• If you must use a space heater, place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface (such as ceramic tile floor), not on rugs or carpets or near bedding or drapes. Keep children and pets away fro m space heaters.
• Never use a cooking range or oven to heat your home.
• It is critical that households have working smoke alarms.

• Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for critical information on snow storms and blizzards from the National Weather Service (NWS).
• Avoid driving when conditions include sleet, freezing rain, snow or dense fog. 
• If travel is necessary, make sure you have a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle which includes: shovel, blanket, flashlight, water, snacks, first aid kit, extra batteries, sack of sand or cat litter.
• Keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
• Before tackling strenuous tasks in cold temperatures, consider your physical condition, the weather factors and the nature of the task.
• When shoveling snow, take frequent breaks to avoid risk of injury or cardiac arrest.
• Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in several layers. Stay indoors, if possible.
• Bring pets inside during winter weather. 
• Make sure coats, gloves or mittens, hats, boots and warm clothing are available for all household members, along with extra blankets.
• Eat regular meals and stay hydrated, but avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.

• Use flashlights for light, not candles. 
• Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Check refrigerated food for spoilage and if in doubt, throw it out. Your refrigerator will keep cold for about 4 hours. If the freezer is full, it will keep its temperature for about 48 hours.
• Have coolers on hand and surround your food with ice in the cooler or refrigerator to keep food cold for a longer period of time. Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. 
• Turn off and unplug all unnecessary electrical equipment and any appliances, equipment or electronics to avoid damaging them when the power is restored.
• Avoid unnecessary travel as traffic lights will be out and roads congested.
• Watch animals and keep them under your direct control.

If a carbon monoxide detector goes off in your home gets outside immediately and call 911. If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, get outside immediately and call 911. For more safety information, visit FDNYsmart.org.

Thank you and stay safe,

 

Ydanis Rodriguez

Chair, Council Transportation Committee

Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill