The Department of Public Safety Emergency Management Agency doesn’t want you to get caught out in the cold or in a flood or any of the other icky weather situations that arise during the winter months in Ohio. In a press release they offer a number of helpful tips that make a lot of sense.
“To stay safe, learn the difference between winter storm watches and warnings mean,” the press release says. “Prepare your home against the cold; and use caution and common sense when driving.
And this is what they have to say about that…
Winter Awareness Information:
- A winter storm WATCH means a winter storm is possible in your area.
- A winter storm WARNING means a winter storm is occurring or will soon occur in your area. Local National Weather Service forecast offices issue warnings on a county-by-county basis.
- A blizzard WARNING means sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 miles per hour or greater and considerable falling or blowing snow (reducing visibility to less than a quarter mile) are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer.
- Be aware of changing weather conditions.
Winter Preparedness Information:
- Use a NOAA Weather Radio to keep you informed of watches and warnings issued in your area
- Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from
- Discuss with your family what to do if a winter storm WATCH or WARNING is issued
This article appears in Dec 17-23, 2008.
