It’s Winter – Travel & Home Safety

A week of chaotic weather continued throughout the United States as a storm system that created deadly tornadoes in the Midwest and Southwest pushed north. More than 40 people have died of weather-related causes during the Christmas holidays in the past week.

Video taken from helicopters by local media showed homes in Missouri with water almost to roof level.

Here in California, we have had some rain, but we know the best is yet to come. What El Niño could bring is almost like a ticking bomb.

We celebrate the New Year in the next few days as many parts of the country brace for severe weather.  Please share the following messages Be Safe with the following precautions.

1. Download the Red Cross free Emergency App (winter storms preparedness module) and the First Aid App (hypothermia preparedness module), or other emergencies, as applicable.

2. Take the Appropriate Steps to Stay Safe on the Road with these steps:  Highway Safety | Car & Road Travel Safety Tips | American Red Cross

And Most Importantly: Prepare for the Unexpected

• Carry a Disaster Supplies Kit in your trunk.
• Pack high protein snacks, water, First Aid kit, flashlight, small battery-operated radio, an emergency contact card with names and phone numbers, extra prescription medications and important documents or information you may need.
• Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.
• Find out what disasters may occur in the place where you are traveling, especially if they are disasters you have never experienced before. Find out how you would get information in the event of a disaster (local radio systems, emergency alert systems).
• Pay attention to the weather forecast for your destination. Travel and weather web sites can help you avoid storms and other regional challenges that could impact your safety.
• Don’t let your vehicle’s gas tank get too low.

3. Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during these events:  Winter Storm Preparedness | Winter Safety Tips | Red Cross

Caution: Carbon Monoxide Kills

• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. Locate unit away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
• The primary hazards to avoid when using alternate sources for electricity, heating or cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.
• If the carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door.
• Call for help from the fresh air location and remain there until emergency personnel arrive to assist you.

Best Wishes to all of you and as always stay safe.