Community Corner
FEMA Warns to Prepare for Winter
Winter weather is coming whether you like it or not and in light of its arrival FEMA wants to remind everyone to start preparing now.
With the current state of mild temperatures and lack of snow, it is hard to be motivated to start preparing for severe winter weather. But remember, Wisconsin is unpredictable and harsh conditions can sneak up without warning.
The region's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) warns winter is on its way.
“Most of us in the Midwest are familiar with severe winter weather, but you can never be too prepared,” said FEMA Region V Administrator Andrew Velasquez III. “Take the time now to winterize both your home and your vehicle to protect you and your family.”
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Anthony LeDonne owner of in Sussex said being prepared is the best way to fight against what winter will bring.
“Prepare and get out before the snow comes,” LeDonne said. “Pick up shovels and salt.”
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Shovels and salt are just a few things that can help you prepare for the winter mess.
FEMA suggests keeping home and car emergency kits available, buying heating fuel or keeping chopped wood and encourage having blankets and warm clothes handy.
LeDonne agreed and said you could take it a step further and buy a jump starter that you can keep in your vehicle, and keep deicer handy for frozen situations.
Besides gathering all the winter essentials FEMA suggests these tips:
- Keep good family communication
- Be aware of weather patterns and news
- Minimize travel when conditions are bad
- Keep pets indoors for the season
Weather proofing you home is another good recommendation LeDonne said. Ace provides tools and materials to insulate windows, door seals and roof heat cables for your home.
Severe Weather
To help with the mission to inform people against hazards, FEMA outlined categories of winter weather.
- Freezing rain is chilly rain that leaves a coating of ice on pathways and roads.
- Sleet stands for rain that forms into ice pellets, causing slick conditions.
- Winter weather advisory means a form of ice, snow and cold are expected.
- Winter storm watch means harsh winter weather is possible.
- Winter storm warning means severe winter conditions have started or will be arriving soon.
Even though the signs of winter haven't arrived, LeDonne reiterates to just be prepared.
“Just make sure you get the stuff you need before it comes.”
