The following is from the Red Cross:
Winter weather is predicted for parts of our community and the American Red Cross has steps people can take to stay safe during this hazardous weather.
“As winter weather moves into our area we encourage everyone to take steps to stay safe and warm,” said Paul Gass, regional preparedness manager, American Red Cross New Jersey Region.
WINTER WEATHER SAFETY TIPS. Here are ten ways to stay safe during this latest round of winter weather:
- Have at least a three day supply of water and non-perishable, easy to prepare food as well as a seven day supply of medications.
- If you need to go outside, dress in layers of lightweight clothing to stay warm. Gloves and a hat will help prevent losing body heat.
- Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will help keep the fuel line from freezing.
- Bring the pets indoors. If that’s not possible, make sure they have enough shelter to keep them warm and that they can get to unfrozen water.
- Avoid frozen pipes – run water, even at a trickle, to help prevent them from freezing. Keep the thermostat at the same temperature day and night to help avoid freezing pipes.
- Do not use a stove or oven to heat the home.
- Space heaters should sit on a level, hard surface and anything flammable should be kept at least three feet away.
- If using a fireplace, use a glass or metal fire screen large enough to catch sparks and rolling logs
- Turn off space heaters and make sure fireplace embers are out before leaving the room or going to bed.
- Charge cell phones and keep flashlights handy in the event of a power outage.
Learn how to treat cold weather related emergencies by downloading the free Red Cross First Aid App at redcross.org/apps. More information about winter safety is available on redcross.org.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
About the American Red Cross in New Jersey The American Red Cross provides programs and services to a population of 8.8 million in New Jersey. The Red Cross trains and mobilizes more than 5,800 volunteers who support the delivery of services throughout the state. In New Jersey last year, the Red Cross responded to 889 local disasters, mostly home fires, helping 1,820 displaced families; collected 88,439 units of blood through blood drives and Red Cross Blood Donation Centers; provided 3,920 military family case services with emergency messages, helping families find assistance and/or get counseling and referrals; and trained 117,088 individuals with life-saving skills in preparedness, CPR, AED use, first aid and aquatics. Follow us on Twitter @NJRedCross.
