Governor Bob McDonnell has
proclaimed December 2-8 as Winter Preparedness Week in the Commonwealth. The Governor
is encouraging Virginians to prepare for any major winter storms that may be in
the offing in the months ahead.
Although last winter was less snowy
than the previous two winters in Virginia, the National Weather Service notes
that anything could happen this year. Bill Sammler, NWS warning coordination
meteorologist, says there will be a greater number of opportunities for low
pressure systems to track nearby compared to last winter. He says if we have
cold temperatures with these southern low pressure systems, Virginians could
have more snow or messy mixed precipitation events.
To prepare for potential winter
weather, Virginians are urged to get fireplaces and wood stove chimneys
inspected and cleaned, install smoke detectors in every bedroom and one on
every level of your home and check batteries every month.
Virginians are also urged to gather emergency
supplies, including at least three days of food that does not need
refrigeration or electricity to prepare, at least three days of water, a battery-powered
radio and extra batteries, flashlights, a first aid kit and an extra supply of
medications.
It’s also recommend that you create an
emergency plan, to set up a meeting place to reunite if your family cannot
return home. You should also choose an out-of-town friend or relative as a
point-of-contact and be sure all family members have that person’s phone
number. Remember family members with special needs and your pets when making
your emergency plan.
Finally, remember you can get the
latest road information by calling 511 or visiting www.511Virginia.org. Even
when roads have been treated, drivers should reduce speed and leave a safe
driving distance from other vehicles on the road. Driving is most
dangerous when the temperature is at or under 32° F. If the road is wet, ice is
likely, especially on bridges, ramps and overpasses.
