CHICAGO – You can’t always predict severe weather, but you can prepare. As a powerful winter storm continues to develop in the Central U.S., the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) encourages everyone to get ready now to weather the storm for at least three days by having all the supplies you and your family need on hand.    

“Snow and ice storms can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. It’s important to know your risk, have a plan and put it into action when confronted with severe weather,” said FEMA Region V Administrator Andrew Velasquez III.

Protect your family and prevent damages with these easy to follow tips:

• Create an emergency supply kit that includes a three-day supply of food and water for each person, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra flashlights and batteries, and any items to meet the unique needs of your family.
• Purchase rock salt to melt ice on walkways, sand to improve traction and snow shovels or other snow removal equipment.
• Ensure your family preparedness plan and contacts are up to date.
• Maintain adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.

Make sure to also put together a winter survival kit for the time you spend on the road.  Don’t run the risk of being stranded in your vehicle without proper emergency equipment and supplies. 

Valuable information on preparing for severe winter weather can be found at www.ready.gov/winter. Visit the site today so you can be confident you have done all you can to be prepared.

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Follow FEMA online at twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema.  Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at twitter.com/craigatfema.  The social media links provided are for reference only.  FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

FEMA Contact: Cassie Ringsdorf, (312) 408-4455