October 25, 2021
The forecast for Iowa for the next 10 days includes the possibility of snow. This is a good time to take a few minutes and get prepared so that you are not caught off guard.
Heimo from the “
Last Alaskans” says “it’s not the cold that will kill you, it’s not being prepared for the cold that will kill you.”
Personal:
- Dress in layers to keep warm.
- Keep your hands and head covered.
- Check on your Neighbors during and after winter storms.
For Your Home:
- Have a plan for how you will keep warm if the power is off for an extended time. (DO NOT use the oven or a gas-powered source inside your home.)
- Have fresh batteries, flashlights, or candles in a convenient place.
- Have some food that does not need to be cooked/heated to eat.
- Have a hand-operated can opener in case the power goes out.
- Have some water stored in a convenient place. (The suggested amount is one gallon per person/animal, per day).
- Block drafts by rolling up towels and blankets and placing them in front of doors/windows.
- Don’t forget your pets, if it’s too cold for you outside, it’s too cold for them.
For Your Vehicle:
- Keep the gas tank at least half full all the time.
- Have an emergency kit in your vehicle that includes, extra, warm clothing, water, and packaged snacks.
- If you get stuck/stranded, STAY IN YOUR VEHICLE, you will stay warmer out of the wind and will be easier to find.
- Let someone know where you are headed, check in with family/friends while traveling distances.
For more winter preparedness tips, visit
www.ready.gov or
www.redcross.org.
Blessings, Stay Warm
Catie Newman
IAUMC Disaster Response Coordinator,
[email protected]
