This Week is Winter Awareness Week in Wisconsin
Monday, November 9th, 2015 -- 10:22 AM
-Governor Scott Walker has declared November 9-13, 2015 as Winter Awareness Week in Wisconsin. The annual campaign, sponsored by Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM), its ReadyWisconsin preparedness program and NOAA's National Weather Service (NWS), is to remind people to be prepared for winter conditions that could threaten their safety.Winter weather can be extremely dangerous and even deadly. Every winter in Wisconsin, officials say approximately 45 people are killed and more than 4,700 are injured in accidents on icy or snow-covered roads. Many of those accidents are caused by driving too fast in winter conditions. Driving can become hazardous quickly and drivers must use caution when driving in these conditions. It is very easy to lose control of your vehicle on slippery roads regardless of whether or not your vehicle is equipped with 4 wheel drive.
It is recommended to carry an emergency supply kit in your vehicle. This kit should include things such as blankets and warm clothing, flashlights with extra batteries, shovel, booster cables, and even sand or cat litter for traction. If you become stranded in your vehicle you should remain with the vehicle. Make sure the exhaust is clear from blockages and run your vehicle for short periods of time for heat.
In your home make sure that exhaust vents for furnaces are clear of snow and ice. Also be sure your home has a carbon monoxide detector and that it is working properly. Carbon Monoxide can be deadly.
Having a NOAA All Hazards Radio is a great first step to being prepared for severe weather. These radios broadcast important weather information as well as alerting you to watches and warnings. These radios are available locally at an economical cost.
Knowing the terms used to describe winter weather is also very important. The National Weather Service (NWS) issues winter storm warnings and watches. Here's what they mean and what you should do.
Winter Storm Watch ? Winter storm conditions (heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain) are possible within the next 36-48 hours. Continue monitoring the weather forecast.
Winter Storm or Ice Storm Warning ? A significant winter storm is occurring or will begin in the next 24 hours. The combination of snow, sleet, freezing rain and moderate winds will impact travel and outdoor activities. An Ice Storm Warning is issued when mostly freezing rain is expected with ice accumulations of ? inch or more within a 12-hour period. Take necessary precautions ? consider canceling travel plans.
Blizzard Warning ? A dangerous storm with winds that are 35 mph or greater in combination with falling and/or blowing snow that reduces visibility to 1/4 mile or less for a duration of at least 3 hours.
Wind Chill Advisory ? Issued for bitter cold wind chills.
Wind Chill Warning ? Issued when frostbite is possible when outside for 10 minutes or less.
Have an emergency supplies kit in your home as well as in your vehicle. This kit should contain things such as water for drinking, non-perishable foods along with blankets, extra clothing and flashlights.
Your local Emergency Management Office can provide assistance in finding information to help you in your efforts to prepare. You can also visit websites such as ready.gov and readywisconsin.gov.
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.