Winter Storm WARNINGS can be life-threatening and severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours.

Winter storms create higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning and heart attacks from overexertion. Winter storms and blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and high winds.

Winter storms can: last a few hours to several days, knock out heat, power, communication services and place older adults, younger children and sick individuals at greater risk.

If you are under a winter storm warning, find shelter right away. Be prepared! Stay off roads if possible. Stay indoors, dress warmly, prepare for power outages, listen for emergency information and alerts, check on neighbors and use generators OUTSIDE only and away from windows

Prepare Now: Know your area’s risk for winter storms. Prepare your home to keep out the cold and keep pipes from freezing. Pay attention to weather reports. Keep enough supplies for several days in case you’re without power. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights. Most importantly have a family plan about what to do in case of an emergency. Keep a cell phone with you. Make sure the battery is fully charged.

Have your vehicle winterized before the season. Install new windshield wipers and always keep your gas tank full. A small pack of sand is great for generating traction under wheels.

Recognize and respond to winter emergencies. Frostbite causes loss of feeling and color around face, fingers and toes. Hypothermia is an unusually low body temperature.

Create a place where animals can be comfortable in severe weather. Bring your companion animals inside and ensure that livestock have unimpeded access to shelter, food and non-frozen water.

Be aware of the potential for flooding when snow and ice melt. Divert water from away from your house. Be sure animals have access to high ground that is not impeded by fencing or other barriers.

So if you plan on being out and about, let someone know your destination, your route of travel and an expected arrival time.

Staying safe during a winter storm requires that you prepare ahead of time. Help protect your loved ones and home through a winter storm.

Although winter comes as no surprise, many of us are not ready for its arrival. If you are prepared for the hazards of winter, you will be more likely to stay safe and healthy when temperatures fall and harsh weather hits.