FEMA Offers Safety Tips on Protecting Against Extreme Cold Gripping Much of the Nation

Release Date: January 29, 2003 Release number: R2-03-01

New York, NY -- The current cold snap across much of the U.S. reminds us that even areas with normally mild winters can be hit with extreme cold. Severe winter weather conditions, such as extreme cold, ice storms and high winds, can produce widespread power outages. With this in mind, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is encouraging families to take steps to ensure safety and take the sting out of wintry weather.

• Assemble a disaster supply kit. Store drinking water, canned food, a non-electric can opener, first aid kit, battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries where you can get them easily, even in the dark. Also include winter specific items such as rock salt, sand and other snow removal equipment.
  
• Make sure that you have sufficient heating fuel as well as emergency heating equipment such as a gas or wood-burning fireplace, gas-powered generator to run space heaters, or kerosene heaters in case electricity is cut off. Know how to use this equipment safely and appropriately, which includes setting up gas-powered generators in a dry area outside, away from air intakes to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
  
• House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions. Keep all heaters at least three feet from flammable objects. Maintain ventilation when using kerosene heaters to avoid a build-up of toxic fumes and always refuel outside. Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them.
  
• Never light a charcoal grill inside, and don't use a gas range to heat your home. Many may turn to gas ovens or charcoal grills as a source of emergency heating, which can be deadly due to the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. If you lose power and don't have a safe emergency heat source, consider checking into a hotel or staying at designated shelters.
  
• Place a winter emergency kit in each car that includes a shovel, windshield scraper, flashlight, battery powered radio, extra batteries, water, snack food, extra hats and mittens, blanket, tow chain or rope, road salt and sand, booster cables, emergency flares and a fluorescent distress flag.

"Now's the time to do an inventory to make sure that you have what you need in case of an emergency," said FEMA Region II Acting Regional Director Joseph F. Picciano. "Its all about being prepared and protected whether you're at home or in your car."

For more information and tips on preparing for winter weather, visit www.fema.gov.