Winter Weather Preparedness Day on October 24, 2012

Posted on Monday, October 22, 2012

In cooperation with the National Weather Service, the Lake County Emergency Management Office is helping to promote Winter Weather Preparedness Day on October 24.

A 2012 Winter Weather Preparedness Guide is being mailed to schools, nursing homes, community support providers, libraries, senior citizen centers, and licensed nursing homes. The electronic version of the Winter Preparedness Guide can be found on the South Dakota Emergency Management website under publications or you can use this direct link. http://dps.sd.gov/emergency_services/emergency_management/documents/Winter12.pdf

WINTER TRAVEL

Winter driving can be extremely hazardous at times due to poor road conditions or reduced visibilities from heavy or blowing snow. During these times, travel is difficult and not recommended. Many people still venture outdoors not knowing what they will encounter. Many winter deaths and injuries can be attributed to people becoming stranded and venturing away from their vehicle. To avoid this, you should stay inside your vehicle and wait for help.

When traveling this winter season: -Listen to the forecast before departing and postpone travel if inclement weather is occurring or expected. -Avoid traveling alone. Inform others of your timetable and planned routes. -Keep your gas tank near full. -Adjust your speed to the condition and increase following distances. -Carry a Winter Survival Kit in your vehicle at all times!

Items that should be in your Survival Kit: -Shovel and flashlight with extra batteries -First aid kit and medications -Non-perishable food, such as granola bars and peanuts -Candles and matches -Extra clothing, sleeping bags, or blankets -Jumper cables and tire chains -Battery-operated radio -Cell phone with fully charged batteries -Windshield scraper and brush -Brightly colored cloth to tie on the antenna so the vehicle can be easily located

Useful resources to use before traveling: -Weather Radio

• • Road Conditions – Safe Travel USA http://www.safetravelusa.com/sd or Call 5-1-1 -Local Media outlets – Radio AM/FM, TV, Newspapers -National Weather Service (NWS) - http://www.crh.noaa.gov/fsd

Contact Information: Donald Thomson Lake County SD 605-256-7611 lakeema@lakecountysd.com

Information Provided by: Lake Co SD Emergency Management