As the winter weather season is here, Henderson County Emergency Management, Kentucky Emergency Management (KYEM), the National Weather Service (NWS) and the Kentucky Weather Preparedness Committee (KWPC) would like to remind you to “BE AWARE – Be PREPARED – Have A PLAN!”
It is important to keep in mind that snow, ice and freezing rain often blankets much of the state, causing widespread traffic problems, power outages, school and business closings. Henderson County Emergency Management reminds everyone to be smart on the roads and in their homes this winter season.
According to Buddy Rogers, public information officer for KYEM and KWPC chairman, “Special care should be exercised when people begin heating their homes for the winter.” Rogers added, “Those who haven’t closed the (foundation) vents on their homes, wrapped exposed pipes in insulation or completed the winterizing should do so now. Something as simple as undoing your garden hose from the outside water bib can prevent it from freezing and save costly plumbing repairs.”
Another concern is space heaters used in cold weather, or individuals using generators if power goes out. Rogers continued, “Space heaters should only be used in places with adequate ventilation for the exhaust gases, and please, please, keep them away from curtains, furniture or other flammable items and always operate generators outside the home and away from windows and doors.” He reminds us, “don’t forget to keep fresh batteries in your portable radios, smoke alarms, as well as your weather alert radios.”
When driving during winter weather conditions – Give plenty of room and watch your speed if there are slick spots on the roads. If you don’t have to go anywhere in a situation like that, don’t. Play it safe! Unless travel is absolutely necessary, stay off the roads and give the local and state highway crews time to make travel safe. Keep an Automobile Safety Kit, which might include bottle water, non perishable food items, a small bag of kitty litter or rock salt in a car trunk, to be used if one gets stuck on a patch of ice or a frozen rut. A blanket or sleeping bag might come in handy if you become stranded.
Being prepared for winter weather (like all weather) starts at home, “BE AWARE – BE PREPARED – Have A Plan!”
During periods of inclement weather, stay tuned to your local broadcasting stations, possess and monitor a weather alert radio.
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