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Don't Let This Happen To You! Prepare!

Winter storms can happen suddenly and without warning. Prepare yourself for emergency situations before they happen!
Assemble an emergency preparedness kit for your vehicle including:
Battery-powered NOAA radio with extra batteries. A blanket and/or sleeping bags
First aid kit and manual
Flashlight with extra batteries
Road flare or electronic signaling device for identification and/or help
Fire extinguisher (5lb., A-B-C Type)
Battery booster cables
Tire repair kit and pump
Compass, road map and knife
Bottled water and non-perishable, high-energy foods such as peanut butter and granola bars
Extra clothing to keep dry
Heavy sack of sand or cat litter (for tire traction) and a tow rope
Windshield scraper and brush
Should you find yourself stranded or stuck in your vehicle stay calm. Take these actions until help arrives:
Stay with your vehicle! Do not try to walk to safety as you can become quickly disoriented in bitter wind and cold and run the risk of developing hypothermia and/or frostbite.
Tie a brightly colored cloth, preferable red, to your antenna so rescuers can easily see you.
Run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked by snow or debris.
Leave the overhead light on inside the vehicle when the engine is running so you can be seen.
While sitting, move your arms and legs continuously to keep your blood circulating and to stay warm.
Keep one window away from the blowing air open to let fresh air in and reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Other important actions to take:
Winterize your vehicle before taking it on the road by taking it to a trusted mechanic. Several things can be checked such as the tire tread, radiator and fluids to make it operate better under winter storm conditions.
Make sure to keep your gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
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