Winter Weather Tips: Preparing for Snow

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a winter storm warning for Montgomery County effective Monday at 7 p.m. through Tuesday until 2.pm. Residents can expect between six and twelve inches of snow according to the NWS.

To help residents prepare for the storm, here are some tips from Montgomery County staff for you and your family:

Preparing for the Storm:

• Check with neighbors or elderly family members who may require special assistance. See if they need help in stocking up on supplies or medications, and call them during the storm.
• If there is a power outage, be prepared by having enough food, water, medications and batteries to last at least two days
• Make sure portable radios, smoke detectors and flashlights are working properly
• Make shelter, food, water and medication preparations for pets and livestock.

During the Storm:

• If there is a power outage, treat all dark corners as four-way stops. Stop and then proceed cautiously.
• During a power outage, relying on battery-operated lights, rather than candles, is much safer.
• Refrigerated food will remain unspoiled only about four hours if the refrigerator is unopened. A full freezer will hold the temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed. Use ice to keep your refrigerator at 40°F or below and the freezer at 0° or lower if there is a prolonged power outage.
• It can be fatal to use gas or charcoal grills, propane heaters and stoves, kerosene space heaters or generators indoors since these items are a source of carbon monoxide, which can build up indoors and cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Click here for more information about  carbon monoxide poisoning from Montgomery County Fire and Rescue.

Cars and Emergency Snow Routes:

• Automobile owners are urged to help clear the way for snow plow operators.
• When parking on-street, pull close to the curb on the even numbered side of the street. Park vehicles in driveways, or off the street, whenever possible.
• Plan where you will park if a State or County Snow Emergency is declared, making parking illegal on those roads.
• Be sure your vehicle are ready to drive after the storm by filling the gas tank; checking tires to make sure they have an adequate tread and are fully inflated; checking oil, antifreeze and windshield washer fluid levels; and ensuring windshield wipers, lights, flashing hazard lights, exhaust system, heater, brakes and defroster are all working.
• Keep a windshield scraper, small shovel and broom in the car for ice and snow removal, and a small sack of sand or kitty litter to improve wheel traction.

More information and tips on preparing for the winter storm can found by clicking here. 

Winter Storm Warning from @NWS_BaltWash covers all of Montgomery County. More information about the storm below.https://t.co/DMFEXvnn7F pic.twitter.com/nFgMOFMOMP

— Montgomery County MD (@MontgomeryCoMD) March 13, 2017

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