Emergency kits should include items for cold temperatures, snow and ice
As cold temperatures return, it is important that you plan for the dangers severe winter storms can cause. To help get ready, the National Weather Service, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, the State Emergency Management Agency and Liberty’s Emergency Manager are joining forces to promote Nov. 20 as Winter Weather Awareness Day in Missouri.
Because Missouri's winter weather can be difficult to predict and can quickly become severe, residents are encouraged to begin preparing now, before winter sets in. - Create a family emergency plan and an emergency kit. Make sure to include bottled water and food that can be prepared without cooking in case of a power outage. Kits should also include battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, a manual can opener and a first-aid kit.
- Ensure all heat sources function properly. Don’t forget to check fireplaces, woodstoves and oil heaters in addition to your furnace. If you have a generator, make sure you have fuel. Remember, you should only operate generators outdoors.
- Prepare a winter car kit. Include a blanket, spare radio with batteries, snacks or energy-rich foods, jumper cables, flares, a shovel and sand or shingles to give tires traction.
- Exercise caution when shoveling snow or pushing a car out of snow banks. Avoid unnecessary travel when driving conditions are poor.
- Charge your cell phone. Make sure you have a full charge before driving in poor winter weather and ensure that important emergency numbers, such as *55 for the Missouri State Highway Patrol, are saved for fast dialing in case of emergencies on state highways.
This winter, it is important that you stay current on weather forecasts and understand key National Weather Service terms:- Winter Storm Watch | Indicates that severe winter weather may affect your area within 12-48 hours.
- Winter Storm Warning | Indicates severe winter weather is in the area or expected immediately and can be life threatening.
- Ice Storm Warning | Are issued for ice accumulations of a quarter-inch or more.
More information on winter weather preparedness tips»