Indianapolis, Indiana

This has been winter weather preparedness week in Indiana. The

National Weather Service... with its partners in state and local

Government and the Red Cross urge you to be prepared for winter.



Though we do not know how bad this winter will be... we do know cold

And some snow or freezing rain events will cause problems in our

Daily lives. Being prepared and having a plan will help minimize the

Impact by weather.



Remember National Weather Service outlooks and watches give you a

Heads up on storm potential days in advance. Weather warnings and

Advisories means weather that is likely to cause you problems has

Already begun or will begin soon.



Some winter weather related deaths result from exposure to cold so

Dress appropriately. Most winter weather related deaths are from auto

Accidents on slippery roads so drive with more caution when roads are

Bad. Other deaths result from fires due to overloaded electrical

Circuits so do not plug too many items into an outlet. Poorly

Maintained heating systems also lead to deaths in fires or by Carbon

Monoxide poisoning. Have your furnace and chimney checked by

Professionals for proper operation and venting.



Have adequate supplies available at home... at work... on The Farm... or

In your vehicle to last at least three days. Have alternate sources

Of heat and power available. Have multiple sources of weather

Information available. Always consider changing plans when the

Weather is expected to turn bad.



The best way to stay safe during winter is to be prepared. Use common

Sense and caution. Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or commercial radio

Or television for the latest information. Take action when the

National Weather Service issues a watch... warning or advisory.