EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS BE AWARE – STAY PREPARED!

Today is Thursday October 25^th and in listening to the weather reports through this week the  weathermen have indicated but are not really saying that North Central WV may be hit with HEAVY, WET SNOW on Sunday or Monday.  If not the HEAVY, WET SNOW, we could end up with flooding from heavy rains.

Our county has an emergency preparedness plan but do you and your household have your own plan so that you don’t spend a miserable 2 to 3 days if an emergency weather situation hits? It could be cold and the possible high wind and heavy snow could wipe out our power.

Preparation for this (or future) storms may save you a few days of stress and possibly keep you safe.

A storm preparedness check list would include:

Medication refills.

Batteries for flashlights(Candles can cause fires. Please use with caution.)

Generator maintenance.

Fresh Fuel for your cars and generator.(Note: Gasoline Stations may be closed due to lack of power or road conditions.)
Water for flushing and kitchen clean-up can be from melted snow.

MAKE SURE THAT YOU HAVE ADEQUATE  DRINKING WATER
Water Lines need to be examined and kept warm so they will not freeze. (Remember the heat tape will be OFF.)
Three to Four days of non-perishable foods.
Cooking could be a problem if you have a newer stove that has the safety feature that shuts off the gas when the electric igniters don’t work. If you plan to use a grill make sure that you have propane.
Heating your home may be a problem if you have an electric furnace.
If you are a transient worker  living in a RV or travel trailer you need to stay aware so you can  protect yourself and the roof over your head. Even after the storm passes, be aware of the possibility of flooding as many make-shift trailer sites ARE IN THE FLOOD PLAIN
Prepare yourself now and breathe a sigh of relief if this storm passes over us.
Remember that what may be snow could come as rain and either way, if we get enough of either at one time we could be in a disaster situation!

Note: The Doddridge County Office of Emergency Services  will open when necessary and can be reached for NON medical and NON fire assistance at 

304-873-1391