Snowstorms
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Snowstorms, freezing rain and cold temperatures can lead to dangerous situations in the winter months. During a winter storm, prioritize staying indoors, dress in warm layers, and avoid overexertion from activities like shoveling.
Check out the following Extension resources to learn how to stay safe and warm during a snowstorm.
Home, Health, and Travel Tips
At Home
Heating and Electricity Concerns
Space heaters, generators, fireplaces, and candles can be used as alternative sources of heat and light, but they can also be dangerous if not used properly. Never use generators or stoves for indoor heating because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use a generator outdoors.
Learn safe ways to use alternative forms of heating and electricity.
Snowstorms and Overloaded Roofs
Snow overloads on roofs can lead to collapses and injuries. Find out more about roof overloads.
Snow and Ice Removal
Stay safe while shoveling and scraping this winter. Learn the proper techniques and tips for snow removal without straining or spraining your muscles. Shoveling slowly, taking frequent breaks, and not pushing yourself too far can help decrease the risk of a heart attack from overexertion.
Learn more about snow and ice removal.
Winter Storm Checklist
Follow the American Red Cross guidelines for winter storm preparedness.
These guidelines suggest, among other things, creating a safety checklist and recommendations for items to purchase before a storm. The site also provides tips on managing supplies during a storm.
Travel Tips
It’s best to avoid traveling during dangerous winter weather. However, if you must travel, be prepared. Keep your car stocked with jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, blankets, water, snacks, and a full tank of gas. If you are stranded, stay in your car, run the engine periodically with a window cracked, and clear snow from the exhaust pipe.
If you must drive, do so slowly. Accelerate, brake and turn gently, while increasing your following distance behind other vehicles. Ensure all windows, lights, and windshield wipers are clear of snow and ice.
Our resources link you to road conditions, best practices
for driving on snow and ice, and other travel tips.
Learn more about traveling during snowstorms.
Tips for Staying Safe Outdoors
Food Safety
It only takes a few hours for food in your fridge or freezer to go bad during a power outage. WVU Extension, in partnership with the USDA, can help you keep your freezers full and your food safe with a few simple tips.
Learn to reduce risks and prevent foodborne illness.
Before Inclement Weather
At the first news of inclement weather, consider taking the recommended precautionary measures from the USDA. Learn how to prepare for an oncoming snowstorm.
Drinking Water
Most often, the safety of our domestic water supply is of little concern. However, situations may occur when the water supply may be cut off or damaged, like during inclement weather.
Learn how to properly store water for use in emergency situations.
Winter Storm Terms
- Freezing rain – rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines.
- Sleet – rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes moisture on roads to freeze and become slippery.
- Winter storm watch – a winter storm is possible in your area. Tune to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, television, or trusted websites for more information.
- Winter storm warning – a winter storm is occurring or will soon occur in your area.
- Blizzard warning – sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 miles per hour or greater and considerable amounts of falling or blowing snow are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer.
- Frost/freeze warning – below freezing temperatures are expected.