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Red Cross urges storm preparedness in light of possibility of a foot of snow in Potsdam, Star Lake

Posted 12/9/14

With the National Weather Service calling for six to 12 inches of snow in Potsdam and Star Lake and seven to 11 inches in Massena, the Red Cross is suggesting steps people can take to stay safe when …

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Red Cross urges storm preparedness in light of possibility of a foot of snow in Potsdam, Star Lake

Posted

With the National Weather Service calling for six to 12 inches of snow in Potsdam and Star Lake and seven to 11 inches in Massena, the Red Cross is suggesting steps people can take to stay safe when severe weather threatens.

“As messy winter weather threatens, we encourage people across our region to take a few simple steps to get prepared,” said Burgundy Magoon, a preparedness specialist for the American Red Cross Eastern New York Region.

Assemble an emergency preparedness kit, the Red Cross suggests. Pack a winter-specific supply kit that includes a warm coat, hat, mittens or gloves, and water-resistant boots, along with extra blankets and warm clothing. Additionally, make sure it includes a first aid kit and essential medications, canned food and can opener, bottled water, flashlights and a battery-powered radio with extra batteries in the home in the event of a power outage, the Red Cross said.

The suggest taking heed of storm warnings. A winter storm watch means winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions via National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio, or local radio or television stations. A winter storm warning means that life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. Individuals in a warning area should take precautions immediately, according to Red Cross.

Practice caution during power outages. In the event of a power outage, be careful to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock or fire when using alternate sources of electricity or heat. Never use a generator or other gas-burning device inside a home, garage, basement, or any partially enclosed area. Turn off or disconnect any appliances or electronics you were using when the power went out. Keep a flashlight and batteries handy and do not use candles for light due to the extreme risk of fire, Red Cross says.

Stay safe on the road. Avoid driving when conditions include sleet, freezing rain or drizzle, snow or dense fog. If travel is necessary, people should keep a disaster supply kits in their vehicle. People should winterize their vehicles and keep the gas tank full to help keep the fuel line from freezing, Red Cross says.

More info: www.redcross.org/prepare