FEMA Public Service Announcements

Winter Storm: 60s

85. Emergency Kit Preparation

ANNCR: Freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall or freezing rain, and low visibility - expect these conditions when you hear a severe winter storm warning. Right now, gather items to make an emergency supply kit. You'll need a waterproof flashlight, a battery-operated radio and lots of extra batteries. A first aid kit is essential, and you'll want a week's supply of non-perishable food and fresh water. Don't forget a non-electric can opener.

Families should have a plan in case they're separated from one another during a disaster. Have everyone agree to call an out-of-town friend or relative and leave a message about where you can be found. For more information visit the FEMA website at w-w-w-dot-f-e-m-a-dot-gov. Listen to this station for more emergency preparedness information from FEMA.

86. Blizzard Warning. Outdoor Precautions, Hypothermia Warning Symptoms

ANNCR: When a blizzard warning is issued, you should expect heavy blowing or falling snow and sustained winds of 35 miles per hour or greater lasting several hours. If you must go outdoors during a blizzard, dress warmly in loose-fitting, layered, lightweight clothing. Outer garments should be water repellent and mittens are warmer than gloves. Protect your lungs by covering your mouth and nose.

The combination of freezing temperatures and high winds increases the possibility of Hypothermia, a dangerous condition which occurs when the body temperature drops to less than 90 degrees. Symptoms include uncontrollable shivering, slow speech, drowsiness and exhaustion from even minor exertion. If hypothermia is suspected, begin warming the victim slowly and seek immediate medical assistance. Listen to this station for more information from local authorities and FEMA.

87. Emergency Heat, E-Kit Items

ANNCR: This is the time of year for severe winter storms. A major winter storm can be lethal. By preparing for cold weather conditions now, you can reduce the danger.

Winter storms can knock down telephone and power lines, and interrupt the delivery of regular fuel sources, such as gas and heating oil. If a winter storm is forecast for this area, make sure you have enough heating fuel to get you through at least a week of bad weather. Have on hand safe, emergency heating equipment, and practice setting it up and using it. In an emergency, a fireplace with an ample supply of wood can be used for cooking as well as heating. Just make sure the flue is open BEFORE you light the fire. Plan ahead to survive the next winter storm, and listen to this station for more information from FEMA.

88. Snow-melt, Flood Insurance, NFIP Hotline

ANNCR: Severe winter storms strike nearly every year with heavy snowfall. A sudden break in bad weather can cause rapid snow-melt, runoff, and unexpected flooding. Many people don't know that the damage to homes and property caused by floods is NOT covered by homeowners insurance. To protect yourself and your family from financial loss due to floods, ask your local insurance agent for more information about the National Flood Insurance Program, or call 1-800-427-4661.

Your area need not be declared a Federal Disaster Area to claim coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program, however, there is a thirty-day waiting period before a policy becomes effective. Get the facts on the National Flood Insurance Program. Listen to this station for more information from FEMA.

89. Winter Storm Watch, E-Kit, Protect Water Pipes

ANNCR: A winter storm watch is issued when there is a threat of severe winter weather within a 24-36 hour period. You may still have time to take precautions that can help prevent injury to your family and damage to your property. Make sure that you have fresh water, adequate non-perishable food, and heating oil, fireplace wood, or kerosene for space heaters.

Check the contents of your emergency supply kit, and re-stock your first-aid kit. A long stretch of sub-zero temperatures can freeze and burst water pipes, causing a flood when it warms up. Locate water cut-off valves for pipes in exterior walls or to outside faucets, and make sure they operate freely. For more information, visit the FEMA web site at w-w-w-dot-FEMA-dot-gov. Plan ahead to survive the next winter storm, and listen to this station for more information from FEMA.

90. Returning Home and Check Utilities

ANNCR: The snow has stopped falling and the winter storm is over. If you are just returning home after the storm, be alert to the possibility that prolonged exposure to sub-zero temperatures may have caused water pipes near exterior walls to freeze and burst. When the burst pipe thaws, water will leak out and can cause flooding.

If your home suffered structural damage during a winter storm, be sure that you inspect the utilities for damage. Check first for gas leaks and downed or broken power lines. Also check for sewage and water line damage. If you find storm related damage to your home and property, take pictures for insurance claims.. Visit the FEMA website at w-w-w-dot-FEMA-dot-gov to learn more. Listen to this station for more information from FEMA.