Winter Awareness Week

This week is winter awareness week, Nov 8-12 and though it’s been mild the snow and cold is just around the corner.  Now is the time to make our winter preparations and be prepared to be snowed in or without power for an extended period of time. 

Everyone should be prepared with a basic kit at home with three days of supplies for everyone.  A checklist of supplies can be found here.  http://readywisconsin.wi.gov/media/pdf/checklist.pdf

It is suggested that a few of the items be purchased at a time to defray costs until the kit is completed.  Also remember to check expiration dates on supplies and change them as they near expiration.

Your car should be prepared for winter and equipped with an emergency kit.  The following is the suggested list of winter car preparations and emergency supplies.

Prepare your car

• Check or have a mechanic check the following items on your car:
• Antifreeze levels - ensure they are sufficient to avoid freezing.
• Battery and ignition system - should be in top condition and battery terminals should be clean.
• Brakes - check for wear and fluid levels.
• Exhaust system - check for leaks and crimped pipes and repair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning.
• Fuel and air filters - replace and keep water out of the system by using additives and maintaining a full tank of gas.
• Heater and defroster - ensure they work properly.
• Lights and flashing hazard lights - check for serviceability.
• Oil - check for level and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well.
• Thermostat - ensure it works properly.
• Windshield wiper equipment - repair any problems and maintain proper washer fluid level.
• Install good winter tires. Make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.
• Maintain at least a half tank of gas during the winter season.

Get A Kit

• Place a winter emergency kit in each car that includes:
• a shovel
• windshield scraper and small broom
• flashlight
• battery powered radio
• extra batteries
• water
• snack food
• matches
• extra hats, socks and mittens
• First aid kit with pocket knife
• Necessary medications
• blanket(s)
• tow chain or rope
• road salt and sand
• booster cables
• emergency flares
• fluorescent distress flag

You can be ready when the snow flies by preparing now.

Register to win a Winter Survival kit and find more information at

http://readywisconsin.wi.gov/default.asp 

http://readywisconsin.wi.gov/Informed/Informed.asp?maintab=1&subtab1=5