1/6/2010 - Winter Storm Safety

For Immediate Release

Date: 1/6/10

For More Information Contact:
Melanie Smith
Community Services Director
(660) 627-1224  

WINTER STORM SAFETY

(Kirksville, MO) -- The National Weather Service office in Pleasant Hill, Missouri has issued a Winter Storm Warning for all of Northern Missouri including Adair County and the City of Kirksville that will begin at noon on Wednesday, January 6th and end at 6 pm on Thursday, January 7th. This storm system could produce 3 to 5 inches of snow starting Wednesday morning and continuing through Thursday. In addition, significant winds will accompany this system and could cause wind chill values to fall to between 20 and 30 below zero.

The Kirksville/Adair County Local Emergency Planning Commission would like to take this opportunity to remind all citizens of a few safety tips for dealing with this storm system and the severely cold temperatures:

  • Stay indoors during the storm, if at all possible.
  • Limit going outside in extreme cold.
  • Listen and watch the local news for warnings and updated information about the storm.
  • If you must go outside, layers of clothing will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Wear gloves or mittens and a hat to prevent loss of body heat. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs.
  • Walk carefully on snowy, icy sidewalks.
  • If you shovel snow, be extremely careful. It is physically strenuous work. Take frequent breaks. Avoid overexertion – heart attacks from shoveling heavy snow are a leading cause of deaths during winter.
  • Avoid traveling by car, but if you must, keep the gas tank full for emergency use and to keep your fuel line from freezing. Let someone know your destination, the route you are taking, and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.
  • If you do get stuck, stay with your car. Do not try to walk to safety. Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna for rescuers to see. Start the car and use the heater for about ten minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes don’t back up in the car. Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running so you can be seen. As you sit, move your arms and legs to keep blood circulating and stay warm. Keep one window open to let in air.
  • After the storm, avoid driving until conditions have improved. Listen to local radio and television stations for updates. Help a neighbor who may require special assistance, especially families with infants, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

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