Safety First

Storms and Other Emergencies

Winter often brings with it severe weather. Strong winds, extreme cold, ice storms and heavy snow are all possible in the Bluegrass during winter months. You may not be able to control the weather, but you can be prepared for it. Here are ways to prepare for inclement winter weather:

Before the storm

• Listen to weather forecasts.
• Have battery operated flashlights and radios with extra batteries.
• Keep a first aid kit and other medical supplies near by.
• Stock up on canned and other ready-to-eat foods.
• Make sure you have an alternate heat source.
• Move farm animals and pets to sheltered areas with plenty of food and water.
• Stock your vehicle with supplies. Include blankets, flashlights with extra batteries, a knife, high-calorie non-perishable foods, extra clothing, a large empty can with tissues and paper towels for sanitary purposes, water proof matches to melt snow for drinking water, sack of sand or cat litter, shovel, windshield scraper and brush, tool kit, tow rope, jumper cables, water containers, compass and road maps.
• Keep your vehicle's gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.

During the storm

• Stay inside.
• Take fire safety precautions with your alternate heat source and make sure to ventilate the area well.
• Close off unneeded rooms.
• Stuff towels in cracks under doors and cover windows at night.
• Wear layers.
• If in a vehicle, stay inside the car or truck. Run your motor for 10 minutes every hour for heat. Make yourself visible to rescuers. Exercise in the vehicle to stay warm and keep blood circulating.

If caught outside

• Find shelter.
• Try to stay dry and cover exposed areas of the body.
• If you can't find shelter, find a place that protects you from the wind.
• Do not eat snow. Snow lowers your body temperature. Make sure you melt it first.

PLEASE REPORT ANY DANGEROUS SITUATIONS IMMEDIATELY BY CALLING 888-655-4243