Winter weather is right around the corner, and the time to prepare is now. Meteorologist Jim Kramper at the National Weather Service says there might not be time when the first storm is bearing down on us:
The Weather Service is joining forces with state and local officials to promote Winter Weather Awareness Day in Missouri. Now is the time to stock up on emergency supplies and get a plan in order:
Missourians can prepare for winter by:
· Creating a family emergency plan and an emergency kit with bottled water and food that can be prepared without cooking in case of a power outage. Kits should include bottled water, canned and dry foods, battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, manual can opener and a first-aid kit.
· Securing an alternate fuel source such as firewood or a generator. Make sure your fireplace functions properly. If you have a generator, make sure you have fuel and that your generator functions properly. Only operate generators outdoors.
· Creating a winter car kit in the trunk of the car. This includes a blanket, spare radio with batteries, snacks or energy-type food, jumper cables, flares, shovel, sand or shingles to give tires traction.
The National Weather Service, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, the State Emergency Management Agency and Missouri’s local emergency managers are joining forces to promote Nov. 14 as Winter Weather Awareness Day in Missouri.