How To Prepare For an Extreme Winter Storm

Regardless of what we think about weather forecasters, make no mistake, it's about to get bitterly cold with our second round of the Polar Vortex and there are several things we should do to prepare for the impending winter storm.

According to Ready.gov here are several things to consider as you make those preparations.

Make sure to have plenty of the following on hand:

• Rock salt or more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways.
• Sand to improve traction.
• Sufficient heating fuel. You may become isolated in your home and regular fuel sources may be cut off. Store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your   fireplace or wood-burning stove.
• Adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.

Make a Family Communications Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another,  how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency.

Listen to the radio for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS). Be alert to changing weather conditions.

Minimize travel. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle.

Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen drinking water.

Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing.  Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.

All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside and kept clear.

Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn  to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.

Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).

For more helpful tips go to Ready.gov