Ohio marks Winter Safety Awareness Week with preparedness reminders

Winter can be a fun and exciting time of the year to build a snowman or go sledding, skiing and ice skating, but winter also can bring snow, ice, blizzard conditions, freezing rain and flooding. In a coordinated effort, Gov. Mike DeWine and the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness recognized Nov. 16-22 as Winter Safety Awareness Week.

“Winter Safety Awareness Week reminds all of us to start thinking about the hazards that winter weather can bring,” DeWine said. “Preparing your home before winter arrives is a great way to stay safe and warm the whole season.”

It’s not unheard of to have severe thunderstorms or even tornadoes occur in the winter months. As winter approaches, residents are encouraged to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year and also be prepared for the harsher side of the season.

During severe weather, getting accurate, timely communication is important. Always get your emergency information, communications, warnings and notifications from reliable sources.

“Ohioans are encouraged enjoy all that winter has to offer, but also to prepare in advance for potentially dangerous winter conditions,” Ohio EMA Executive Director Sima Merick said. “Right now, before winter arrives, is the best time to get your preparedness plan created or updated and build an emergency-preparedness kit.”

Below are some tips to help you prepare for winter hazards:

—Have an emergency kit and plan. Your plan and kit should include all members of your household including pets. Consider household members who may need medical equipment or medication, as well as the needs of babies, young children and older adults.

—Know where to get reliable emergency communication. You should have multiple methods of communication, alerts and notifications to notify you of impending severe weather or other urgent situations. Know what type of communication works best for you and your family before an emergency happens.

—Practice your plan. Gather your household together so everyone understands the plan and their role in the process.