It’s no secret the weather in North Texas can be unpredictable and brutal at its extremes. That’s why it’s important to be prepared for whatever mother nature throws our way. Our Winter Weather Emergency Preparedness list will help you know how to prep beforehand, and give you tips to keep you and your family safe in even the harshest of winter storms.
TO DO BEFORE THE STORM
Create a winter storm emergency kit from the above list. Locate the main water line to your house.
Fill up your car with gas.
Winterize your home. (See the back for list)
Know your medical needs.
Replace wiper fluid with a wintertime mixture.
Make sure your tires have air in them.
Charge all your devices and power strips.
Lower the heat in your house a few degrees if you can to help avoid grid failure.
IF YOU LOSE POWER
Immediately turn off the water to your house. Then turn on all the faucets to your house and let the water flow until it stops. This ensures there is no water in your pipes that can burst.
Unplug Valuable devices in your house like TVs, computers, and gaming systems.
Choose one room in your house to “Live” in.
Close your garage door.
Keep your freezer and refrigerator closed.
Know the signs of hypothermia and monitor all loved ones. Cover your windows with blankets if you can.
Open your cabinets to let warmer air around the pipes.
IF YOU LOSE WATER
Turn off the power to your water heater if your power isn’t off. Use bottled water if you need to drink or cook.
If you have lost power, when you drain your faucets, save the water in the tub & sink to use.
If you have saved water you can use it to flush toilets.
AFTER THE STORM
Check to make sure no pipes burst before turning your water back on. If you must leave your house, try to keep roads clear for emergency vehicles and be careful when driving as roads could still be iced and dangerous.
Apply for FEMA if it applies to you.
Call any plumbers or other contractors to fix immediate damage. File any insurance claims as soon as possible.
KNOW THE SIGNS OF HYPOTHERMIA
Signs of Hypothermia in Adults: Shivering
Exhaustion or feeling very tired Confusion
Fumbling hands
Memory loss
Slurred speech
Drowsiness
Signs of Hypothermia in Babies:
bright red, cold skin
very low energy
Hypothermia is a medical emergency. If you notice any of the above signs, take the person’s temperature. If it is below 95° F, get medical attention immediately! Warm drinks can help increase body temperature, but never give alcoholic drinks.
STOCK UP ON THE BASICS BEFORE ANYTHING HAPPENS
Extra Gallons of Water or Bottled Water Extra Baby Food/Formula
Extra Pet Food
Extra Medication
Shelf Stable Meals
Shelf Stable Snacks
Battery Powered or Crank Flashlight Battery Powered or Crank Radio Consider a Portable Generator
Extra hats, coats, mittens, and blankets A Warm Winter Coat
Windshield scraper
Shovel
First Aid Kit
Tow Chains or Rope
Tire Chain if you need to drive
Cat Litter or Sand to help tires get traction
Notice:
1. This is an emergency supply. Don’t use it! Save it for a true crisis.
2. Never attempt to use a gas or charcoal burning appliance, camp stove or generator in enclosed spaces. This can cause Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
3. In any true emergency call 911.
Click here for a pdf version.