When winter storms knock out power, the cold inside your home can turn dangerous faster than many people realize.
Parts of the U.S. are expected to experience a winter storm in the coming days, with possible heavy snow, ice and extremely cold temperatures.
Newsweek previously obtained an AccuWeather advisory which said that the “large” storm could deliver widespread rain and thunderstorms across the south-central and southeastern U.S. over the weekend.
The Northeast could also see snow and ice impacts, the advisory added.
Seal in Heat and Layer Up
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) advises households to conserve warmth by blocking drafts and limiting heat loss.
In its guidance, “How Can I Stay Warm During a Power Outage?,” FEMA recommends that residents, “close off unneeded rooms, stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors and cover windows at night,” to help trap warm air indoors.
Consumer Reports also published a number of ways to stay warm during a possible power outage, which include getting a generator, using window and door seals to prevent drafts or even using sleeping bags and heavy blankets inside your home.
Use Heaters and Fireplaces Safely
For those that have a generator, using a space heater can help keep your home warm during a potential power outage.
However, there are a number of precautions listed by Consumer Reports when using space heaters or fireplaces.
John Galeotafiore, Consumer Reports associate director of product testing said, “Consumer Reports only recommends using a portable propane heater designed for indoor use in an emergency… And you should only use these tools if you’re able to follow crucial safety instructions.”
The publication also states that when using a space heater or fireplace, you should ensure that all your carbon monoxide and smoke alarms are properly working, to avoid any further potential issues.
Travel Precautions
Newsweek also previously reported that the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an advisory that Alaska, Maine, Colorado, California and Wyoming could potentially see up to 24 inches of snow in the coming days.
The NWS warns that, “severe winter weather conditions will make travel extremely dangerous.”
If travel is “absolutely necessary,” motorists should call 511 for the latest local road conditions before they set off.
They should allow extra time to reach their destination, drive slowly, leave plenty of space between vehicles, avoid sudden braking, prepare for sudden changes in visibility and exercise extreme caution on hills or when making turns, Newsweek reported.
The NWS advises that travelers might want to take items such as tire chains, booster cables, a flashlight, a shovel, blankets, extra clothing, water and high-energy, non-perishable food.
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