Winter storms can bring snow, sleet, ice, freezing rain and high winds across our region. Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion.

A winter storm can:

• Last a few hours or several days.
• Cut off heat, power, and communication services.
• Put older adults, children, sick individuals, and pets at greater risk.

Prepare your home to keep out the cold with:

• insulation
• caulking
• weather stripping

Other proactive tips:

• Learn how to keep pipes from freezing.
• Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
• Gather supplies that can lasts through several days if there’s a power outage.
• Consider each person’s specific needs, including medication.
• If you have pets, think about their needs.
• Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights.

If you are unable to afford your heating costs, weatherization or energy-related home repairs, contact the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for help.

If you lose power during a winter storm, remember to NEVER use your generator or grill indoors. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. A gas stove or oven should NEVER be used to heat your home either as this increases your chance of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Winter weather can affect our home, our work, and our car. Keeping a full tank of gas is always a good idea. Also, consider creating an emergency supply kit for your car and include the following items:

• jumper cables
• sand
• flashlight
• warm clothes
• blankets
• bottled water
• non-perishable snacks

Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion. Stay safe with the following tips:

• Stay off roads, if possible.
• If you are trapped in your car, then stay inside.
• Limit your time outside.
• If you need to go outside, then wear layers of warm clothing.

• Reduce the risk of a heart attack by avoiding overexertion when shoveling snow and walking in the snow.
• Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia and learn how to treat the symptoms.

Stay tuned to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms. You can also sign up for ReadyHarris Alerts to receive the latest information on imminent threats to life, health, safety and property in Harris County. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.

• Local Forecast: National Weather Service Houston-Galveston
• Prevent Hypothermia & Frostbite: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Winter Weather: National Weather Service
• Winter Weather: Ready.gov