In anticipation of expected heavy snowfall from Sunday to Monday in St. Lawrence County, the American Red Cross is offering tips to help people prepare and stay safe during winter storms.

“We encourage people to take precautions now, and to be prepared for the possibility that snow might affect their plans in the coming days,” said Jane Gendron, executive director of the North Country Red Cross. “There are lots of simple things that people can do before severe weather strikes to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.”

A winter storm warning is in effect from 10 a.m. today through 7 p.m. Monday in St. Lawrence County, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

Snow will be heavy at times with total accumulation of 8 to 12 inches expected in parts of the North Country, NWS says. Snowfall could be up to one inch per hour at times.

The heaviest snowfall will be this afternoon through midnight.

Roads will be snow covered and visibility will be limited due to falling and blowing snow creating hazard travel conditions. Visibility will be less than one quarter mile at times, the service says.

Wind gusts up to 35 mph will be possible. High was be in the 20s.

The high Monday will be near 25 with snow, mainly before 9 a.m. Overnight on Monday the low is expected be around 12 with mostly cloud skies.

To prepare for a winter storm, the Red Cross recommends the following:

· Put together an emergency supply kit that includes winter-specific items such as gloves, hats, and boots; sand or non-clumping kitty litter to help make walkways and steps less slippery; and canned foods, bottled water, flashlights and batteries to use in the event of a power outage. A complete list of recommended emergency supplies can be found on the Red Cross website.

· Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full to prevent the fuel line from freezing.

· Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.

· Leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F, to prevent freezing pipes.

· Download the Red Cross Emergency App for instant access to winter storm safety tips and weather alerts. Find the free app in app stores or at redcross.org/apps.

In the event of a winter storm, stay safe by following these tips:

· Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for critical information from the National Weather Service.

· Avoid driving when conditions include sleet, freezing rain, snow or dense fog. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supply kit in your vehicle.

· Run water, even at a trickle, to help prevent pipes from freezing. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.

· Stay indoors, if possible. Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in several layers, and consider the weather and your own physical condition before tackling strenuous tasks like shoveling in cold temperatures.

For more information about winter storm safety, including additional tips to help you prepare and respond to severe winter weather, please visit redcross.org.