Winter storms pose serious threats to people, pets and property. Extreme cold, freezing rain, snow and strong winds can be especially dangerous in areas unaccustomed to severe winter weather. Take precautions now to protect your family and your home.

Keep space heaters away from flammable materials such as curtains and furniture. NEVER leave them unattended!

Bring pets indoors.

Gather firewood for supplemental heating sources such as a fireplace, wood stove, etc., or secure extra supplies of home heating fuel. Make sure you have proper ventilation.

Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in the home.

Move all vehicles inside the garage if possible.

Prepare an emergency survival kit: battery-powered NOAA weather radio and portable AM/FM radio, blankets/sleeping bags, first aid supplies, flashlights, extra batteries, extra medicines and baby items, three-day supply of non-perishable food and water, and pet items.

Trim back tree branches near the home that might snap under the load of accumulating snow and ice.

Insulate all exposed water pipes outside the home; open spigots to allow a small, continuous drip to prevent freezing.

Protect roof against heavy snow and ice loads; clean gutters.

Remove screens from windows and install storm windows.

Always remove garden hoses and drain water from spigots.

Stay inside. Close-off unoccupied rooms in the home DO NOT use charcoal or other fuel-burning devices that emit poisonous gases, such as carbon monoxide.

Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Remove layers as needed to avoid overheating, perspiration, and subsequent chill.

Set the thermostat in your house no lower than 55 degrees. Allow a slow trickle of warm water to flow overnight especially if the faucet is on an exterior wall. (Be sure both the hot and cold faucets are flowing.)

Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to uninsulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.

Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids and eat high-caloric foods.