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Preparing for Winter Storms, from
Washington Military Department, Division of Emergency
Manangement
Preparing for Winter
Winter storms in the Northwest can range from days-long
drizzle to moderate snow over a few hours or even to
blizzard conditions with blinding, wind-driven snow or
freezing rain that lasting for several days. The time to
prepare is before the rain, snow or ice starts to fall.
Begin by learning the warning terms:
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A winter storm watch indicates severe winter
weather may affect your area.
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A winter storm warning indicates severe winter
weather conditions are definitely on the way or may be
occurring.
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A blizzard warning means large amounts of falling
or blowing snow and sustained winds of at least 35 miles
per hour are expected for several hours.
Listen to NOAA Weather
Radio, local radio or television stations for weather
reports and emergency information. Other things you can do:
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Dress in layers - wear mittens, wear a hat
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Avoid overexertion
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Watch for signs of hypothermia or frostbite (Never give a
hypothermia or frostbite victim something with caffeine or
alcohol. in it Caffeine can cause the heart to beat
faster, alcohol can slow the heart - either way, they both
hasten the effects cold has on the body.)
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Conserve fuel by keeping your house cooler than normal -
wear a sweater.
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Refuel kerosene heaters outside and when in use - keep
them at least three feet from flammable objects.
More Information
The Washington State Emergency Management Division (WSDEM)
has created several informational flyers to help all of
us prepare for winter and problems that may come up during
winter weather. They are available in Adobe PDF format,
and in other formats directly from the WSDEM website , covering the following
topics:
Flooding
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Before the flood - Things to do to be ready to evacuate if
the situation worsens.
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During the Flood - Steps to take while you are waiting for
the order to evacuate
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After the flood - Safety tips to follow before re-entering
your home
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Flood Clean Up - Once the waters recede and it's safe to
return Home
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Saving Photographs After the Flood
Winter Driving
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Preparing Your Car for Winter
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Starting your Car in Extremely Cold Conditions
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How to Jump-Start Your Car
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How To Handle Your Car On Snow and Ice
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Danger Zones Require Special Attention - Intersections,
Hills, and Curves
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Be Prepared - If You're Stranded or Lost
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What to Do if You're Trapped in a Car During a Winter
Storm
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Getting Unstuck From A Snowdrift
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Handling Sport Utility Vehicles - Fundamental Safety Rules
for Safe Winter Driving
Winter Weather
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Preparing for Power Outages - What to do when the lights
go out
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Recommended Winter Clothing; Signs of hypothermia and
frostbite
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Tips for Businesses to Minimize Freeze Related Losses
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Tips for Seniors - Emergency Preparedness Tips That Make
Good Sense.
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Using a Generator During Power Outages - Tips for Safety
& Survival
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When Caught in a Winter Storm - Outside, In a Vehicle, at
Home or Elsewhere
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Winter Weather Tips for people with special needs
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