Dallas County Emergency Preparedness

2012

Winter Weather
 Winters in Dallas County can mean a variety of fluctuating conditions which can include snow or subfreezing temperatures as well as strong winds or even ice or heavy rain storms. Winter weather can affect heat, power and communications services.  Because we maintain a normal temperate climate, residents can be caught off guard when severe winter weather hits.

Winter Preparedness Week

• What Should You Do To Get Ready For Winter Weather?
• For Safe Winter Driving
• Holiday Safety Tips

Holiday Safety Tips
Holiday safety should be on your “to do” list during the holiday season.  Here are important safety tips to help you celebrate safely and reduce the risk of fire.

Holiday Trees

• DO NOT use candles on or near the tree.
• Place the tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces and heaters.
• Keep your holiday tree in a sturdy base filled with water.  Check the water level every day. 
• Safely dispose of your tree before it becomes dangerously dry.  NEVER burn the tree or tree parts in your fireplace.

Holiday Lights

• Use “UL” approved lights.
• Examine all indoor and outdoor lights for frayed cords and replace if necessary.
• Never use lights that have an empty socket.
• Lights should not touch combustible materials.
• "Indoor" lights should never be used outdoors.
• Avoid using extension cords, but if you do, follow instructions carefully.
• Do not overload electrical circuits such as wall outlets and extension cords.  Use a circuit strip.

Holiday Gift Wrap

• Keep papers, bows and trims away from heat sources such as fireplaces, space heaters, radiators, etc.
• Never burn gift wrappings in your fireplace.

Prepare for Winter Weather

• Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and window sills to keep the warm air inside.
• Familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify winter weather.
• Freezing Rain creates a coating of ice on roads and walkways.
• Sleet is rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground, causing roads to freeze and become slippery.
• Winter Weather Advisory: cold, ice and snow expected.
• Winter Storm Watch: severe weather, such as heavy snow or ice, possible in the next day or two.
• Winter Storm Warning: severe winter conditions have begun or will begin soon.
• Frost/Freeze Warning: below-freezing temperatures are expected.
• Thoroughly check and update your family’s emergency supply kit before winter approaches.
• Include adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.
• If you have a car, fill the gas tank in case you have to leave.
• Plan to stay inside and make it on your own, at least for a period of time.
• If you have a wood burning fire place, consider storing wood to keep you warm if winter weather knocks out your heat.

If you use a generator or space heater practice proper safety procedures.