Warm Up to Winter
American Red Cross Tips Make the Most of the Season
Somerville, February 1, 2007 – With winter storms about to descend, now is the time to get ready. The following American Red Cross guidelines can help individuals and families prepare for a safe season this year.
- When you come in from the cold, get out of wet clothes immediately and wrap up with a blanket. Layers provide warmth. Pile on the clothes to raise or maintain your body temperature. Drink warm fluids like hot cider or soup.
- Be ready with an EMERGENCY SUPPLIES KIT:
- First aid kit and essential medications.
- Battery-powered NOAA Weather radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.
- Canned food and can opener.
- Bottled water (at least one gallon of water per person per day to last at least 3 days).
- If experts indicate severe weather could be headed your way, stay updated on conditions. Check TV and radio reports regularly. Know the difference between a winter storm watch and a winter storm warning. A storm WATCH means that winter weather is possible in your area. A storm WARNING means a winter storm is headed you way. A blizzard warning indicates strong winds, blinding wind-driven snow and dangerous wind chill are expected and you should seek shelter immediately.
- Make sure to learn the life saving skills of First Aid/CPR. Contact Greater Somerset County Chapter for information about classes at (908)725-2217 or www.chapters.redcross.org/nj/gscc/
- This time of year, it is a real challenge to maintain adequate blood supply. With supplies just ahead of demand under the best of circumstances, please give blood regularly and please consider having your organization host a blood drive to lessen the impact when inclement weather strikes. Call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE for more information.
For further information, please contact the Greater Somerset County Chapter of the American Red Cross, 14 West Cliff Street, Somerville at (908)725-2217 or log on to our website at www.chapters.redcross.org/nj/gscc/ |
