By Deputy County Executive Lisa Chimera
In this first month of 2024, our region has already experienced three major weather events. As a result of the difficult lessons learned from the Blizzard of ‘22, our greater community was better prepared to handle a wind storm and back-to-back lake-effect snow events. I appreciate all who assisted in these efforts, including our Community Organizations Active in Disasters) group, first responders and road-clearing crews. I also thank the community regarding public safety messages and adhering to driving bans.
As we enter the recovery phase, it is important to make sure you and your household are prepared for the next emergency or severe weather event. The following safety recommendations are important and practical tips for yourself and your household to turn the stress and uncertainty of an emergency into positive actions.
- Take a household inventory. Know what emergency supplies you have and what you should obtain or restock. Include flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit and battery-powered radio. Establish a supply of nonperishable food and include a hand-operated can opener. Your inventory should also include skills. Do you know basic first aid and CPR? Are you able to shovel snow, run a generator or clear debris with a chainsaw?
- Create a “circle of care” with family, friends, neighbors, faith leaders, and medical and mental health experts. Think about who has resources or knowledge that would be useful in an emergency. Include those who live close by and have access to tools or generators.
- Create an emergency plan with your circle. Build a group inventory of supplies, tools and knowledge. Make sure to share any anticipated needs. Some in your circle may need help shoveling or clearing exterior furnace vents, others may need oxygen or medication, and families may need diapers and infant formula.
- Organize a call tree with neighbors and have a plan for what to do if the roads become unsafe or if the power goes out. Have phone numbers of neighbors of loved ones as an alternate way to contact them in an emergency.
- Learn how to insulate a chosen room in your house in the event the power or heat goes out. Use plastic sheeting and duct tape to seal doorways and windows. Keep family members and pets inside the same room. Make sure there are working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, especially if using an artificial heating source, like a gas fireplace, to stay warm.
- Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia. To stay warm in a vehicle while conserving gas, run the engine for only 10 minutes, once or twice per hour, and make sure the tailpipe is clear of ice and snow to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Create an emergency supply kit for your car. This should include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water and nonperishable snacks.
- Pay attention to National Weather Service forecasts and important safety messages from Erie County or your local city, town or village government.
- Review tips for safe shoveling. This is especially important for older adults and those with certain health conditions. Dress appropriately, take frequent breaks and stay hydrated.
I would also like to encourage everyone to download the free ReadyErie app. You can also find more information on preparedness at Erie.gov/winter. Thank you again to all who worked to prepare our region for winter weather.