A brutal snowstorm slammed most of Western New York and the North Country last weekend with one town getting hit with more than five feet of snow. The Hudson Valley isn’t expected to receive that type of accumulation this season, but winters in these parts can still be brutal. Emergency management personnel from throughout the region are encouraging residents to be prepared for winter, which officially begins on December 21st.
Experts say simple actions like checking your heating systems, stocking up on essentials, and keeping emergency kits readily available can make a huge difference in an emergency. The National Weather Service recommends minimizing travel during the winter months and staying indoors during the worst part of the extreme cold. They also recommend keeping a winter survival kit in your car if you must travel. Motorists are advised to take precautionary steps like checking their vehicle’s tire pressure, antifreeze levels, and heaters and defrosters before departing on a trip. They are also advised to fill their vehicle’s fuel tank more frequently to reduce the chance of running out of fuel.
Residents are encouraged to learn how to shut off water valves in their homes in the event of a potential pipe burst and should make extreme cold weather plans including a generator backup, winterizing, and safe emergency heating precautions. Finally, it is advised to conduct frequent checks on the elderly during the extreme cold and make sure pets are not exposed to the elements. Experts concur that a little extra planning goes a long way to ensure that everyone has what they need when a winter storm or extreme cold is in the forecast.
