National Weather Service Alerts for New York

Now is the time to prepare your home and car to safely enjoy the winter season. Have your home heating system checked by a professional. If you heat by wood, clean your fireplace or stove now.  Have your chimney checked for any buildup of creosote and then cleaned to lessen the risk of fire.

Click below for information on specific topics:

Winter Storm Warnings

Winterizing Your Home

Winterizing Your Vehicle

Diving Safely

Power Outages

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Fire Safety

Staying Warm Indoors

Generator Safety

Kerosene Heaters

Dressing For The Season

Physical Exertion

Frostbite and Hypothermia

Snow Blower Safety

Clearing Your Roof

Winter Sports

Protecting Pets

Helping Neighbors

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As the winter weather season approaches, do you know what the various weather warnings and advisories mean?

WINTER STORM WATCH indicates that winter weather may affect your area.

WINTER STORM WARNING indicates that severe winter weather conditions are definitely on the way.

BLIZZARD WARNING indicates that snow and strong winds of at least 35 miles per hour combined will produce blinding snow, near-zero visibility, deep drifts and life-threatening wind chill.

WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY indicates winter weather conditions, with snowfall of between 3 to 6 inches, are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous, especially to motorists.

Knowing what these terms mean will help you better protect yourself and loved ones. 

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Winterizing Your Home

Make sure your home is properly insulated. If necessary, insulate walls and attic.  This will help you to conserve energy and reduce your home's power demands for heat.

 Caulk and weather-strip doors and windowsills to keep cold air out.

 Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside.  This will provide an extra layer of insulation, keeping more cold air out.

 Inspect and flush your water heater.

 Clean gutters. Leaves and other debris will hamper drainage.

Replace batteries of smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide detectors.  If you didn’t do it when you set the clocks back, do it now. 

Before Cold Weather

• Locate and insulate pipes most susceptible to freezing--typically those near outer walls, in crawl spaces, or in the attic.  
• Wrap pipes with heat tape (UL approved). 
• Seal any leaks that allow cold air inside where pipes are located. 
• Disconnect garden hoses and, shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets. This reduces the chance of freezing in the short span of pipe just inside the house. 

When It's Cold

• Let hot and cold water trickle at night from a faucet on an outside wall. 
• Open cabinet doors to allow more heat to get to uninsulated pipes under a sink or appliance near an outer wall. 
• Make sure heat is left on and set no lower than 55 degrees. 
• If you plan to be away: (1) Have someone check your house daily to make sure the heat is still on to prevent freezing, or (2) drain and shut off the water system (except indoor sprinkler systems). 

If Pipes Freeze

• Make sure you and your family know how to shut off the water, in case pipes burst. Stopping the water flow minimize the damage to your home. Call a plumber and contact your insurance agent. 

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Winterizing Your Vehicle

Have a mechanic check the following items on your vehicle: 

Install good winter tires.  Make sure the tires have adequate tread.  All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions.  You may also want to carry a set of tire chains in your vehicle for heavy snow conditions.

Keep a windshield scraper and small broom for ice and snow removal.

Maintain at least a half tank of gas throughout the winter season.

Finally, plan long trips carefully. Listen to the local media report or call law enforcement agencies for the latest road conditions.

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Driving Safely

When winter storms strike, don’t drive.

If you must travel, make sure you car is stocked with survival gear like blankets, a shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy foods and brightly-colored cloth to use as a distress flag.

 Keep your gas tank full to prevent gas line freeze-up.

If you have a cell phone or two-way radio available, keep the battery charged and keep it with you whenever traveling.  If you should become stranded, you will be able to call for help, advising rescuers of your location.

 Make sure someone knows your travel plans.

If you are trapped in a car:

• Stay in your car.  Wait for help to find you.

• Run your engine for short periods of time to stay warm but keep your down-wind window open and make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow.

• Turn on the dome light at night when you are running the engine to signal rescuers.

• Hang a brightly-colored piece of cloth or piece of clothing from your car.

• Exercise from time to time by vigorously moving arms, legs, fingers and toes to keep blood circulating and to keep warm.

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If you lose electrical service during the winter, follow these tips:

• Call your utility first to determine area repair schedules. Turn off or unplug lights and appliances to prevent a circuit overload when service is restored. Leave one light on to indicate power has been restored.

• To help prevent freezing pipes, turn on faucets slightly. Running water will not freeze as quickly.

• Protect yourself from carbon monoxide poisoning.

• DO NOT operate generators indoors; the motor emits deadly carbon monoxide gas.  

• DO NOT use charcoal to cook indoors. It, too, can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide gas.

• DO NOT use your gas oven to heat your home. Prolonged use of an open oven in a closed house can create carbon monoxide gas.

• Make sure fuel space heaters are used with proper ventilation.

• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to help reduce food spoilage.

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• Carbon monoxide poisoning is a silent, deadly killer claiming about 1,000 lives each year in the United States.

• The colorless, odorless gas can be produced by such common items as automotive exhaust, home heating systems and obstructed chimneys.

• The gas can also be produced by poorly vented generators, kerosene heaters, gas grills and other items used for cooking and heating when used improperly during the winter months.  

• NEVER run generators indoors.  Open a window slightly when using a kerosene heater. NEVER use charcoal to cook indoors. NEVER use a gas oven to heat your home.

• Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include sleepiness, headaches and dizziness.

• If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, ventilate the area and get to a hospital.

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• Wood-burning stoves, fireplaces and heaters can add a cozy glow but make sure you are using them safely.

• Always keep a screen around an open flame.

• Never use gasoline to start your fireplace.

• Never burn charcoal indoors.

• Do not close the damper when ashes are hot.

• When using alternative heat sources such as a fireplace, woodstove, etc. always make sure you have proper ventilation. Keep curtains, towels and potholders away from hot surfaces.

• Have your chimney checked before the season for creosote buildup -- and then clean it.

• Have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors ... and make sure they work!  Establish a well-planned escape route with the entire family.

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• If your heat goes out during a winter storm, you can keep warm by closing off rooms you don't need.

•  Use only safe sources of alternative heat such as a fireplace, small well-vented wood or coal stove or portable space heaters.  Always follow manufacturer's instructions.

• Dress in layers of lightweight clothing and wear a cap.

• Eat well-balanced meals.

• Losing your heat when winter's winds are howling isn't pleasant. But by following these simple tips, you will weather the storm more comfortably.

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• Before installing a generator, be sure to properly disconnect from your utility electrical service.  If possible, have your generator installed by a qualified electrician.

• Run generators outside, downwind of structures. NEVER run a generator indoors. Deadly carbon monoxide gas from the generator's exhaust can spread throughout enclosed spaces.  Install a carbon monoxide detector.

• Fuel spilled on a hot generator can cause an explosion.  If your generator has a detachable fuel tank remove it before refilling. If this is not possible, shut off the generator and let it cool before refilling.

• Do not exceed the rated capacity of your generator. Most of the small, home-use portable generators produce from 350 to 12,000 watts of power.  Overloading your generator can damage it, appliances connected to it, and may cause a fire.  Follow the manufacturer's instructions.

• Keep children away from generators at all times.

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• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Use only the correct fuel for your unit.

• Refuel outdoors only, and only when the unit is cool.

• Keep the heater at least three feet away from furniture and other flammable objects.

• When using the heater, use fire safeguards and ventilate properly.

• Remember, the fire hazard is greatly increased in the winter because alternate heating sources often are used without following proper safety precautions.

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• Wear loose, lightweight, warm clothing in several layers.  Trapped air between the layers acts as an insulator.  Layers can be removed to avoid perspiration and subsequent chill.

• Outer garments should be tightly woven, water repellent and hooded.

• Always wear a hat or cap on your head since half of your body heat could be lost through an uncovered head.

• Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs from extreme cold.

• Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves because fingers maintain more warmth when they touch each other.

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• Cold temperatures put an extra strain on your heart.  Heavy exertion -- such as shoveling snow, clearing debris or pushing a car -- increase the risk of a heart attack.

• To avoid problems, remember these tips:

• Stay warm, dress warm and SLOW DOWN when working outdoors.

• Take frequent rests to avoid over exertion.

• If you feel chest pain -- STOP and seek help immediately.

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People working or playing outdoors during the winter can develop frostbite and not even know it.

• There is no pain associated with the early stages of frostbite, so learn to watch for these danger signs:

• First, the skin may feel numb and become flushed.  Then it turns white or grayish-yellow.  Frostbitten skin feels cold to the touch.

• If frostbite is suspected, move the victim to a warm area.  Cover the affected area with something warm and dry. Never rub it! 

• And then get to a doctor or hospital as quickly as possible.

Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can cause hypothermia, especially in children and the elderly.

• Watch for these symptoms: Inability to concentrate, poor coordination, slurred speech, drowsiness, exhaustion, and uncontrollable shivering followed by a sudden lack of shivering.

• If the person's body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit, get emergency medical assistance immediately!

• Remove wet clothing, wrap the victim in warm blankets and give warm, non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated liquids until help arrives.

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Do you have a snow blower?  Did you know that most snow blower injuries happen because the operator did not read the operating instructions?  Please read your owner's manual and follow these tips:

• Never leave your snow blower running and unattended.

• Make sure the discharge chute is not aimed at passing motorists or pedestrians.

• Never put your hands into the discharge chute or augers to clear stuck snow and ice.

• Never add fuel when the engine is running and hot.

• Make sure you know how to turn the machine off quickly.

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As the snow and ice continues to build up across Westchester County, homeowners should think about safety before trying to clear the snow from their roof tops.

• When possible, use long-handled snow rakes or poles.

• If you must use a ladder, make certain that the base is securely anchored.  Ask a friend, neighbor or adult family member to hold the ladder while you climb.

• Know where the snow is going to fall before clearing the area.

• Make certain not to contact electrical wires.

• If possible, do not attempt to clear the roof alone. 

• If you're afraid of heights or think the job is too big for you, HIRE HELP.

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Westchester County offers an abundance of sports activities during the winter season. From skiing and snowboarding to ice climbing, hiking and other outdoor pursuits, parents and children should follow the safety rules of the sport.

• Most importantly, use the proper equipment and check to make sure everything is in proper working condition. A well-fitting ANSI/SNELL certified helmet will assure a safer, more enjoyable wintertime experience whether you are skiing, sledding, snowboarding or skating.  

• Dress in multiple, lightweight layers to stay warm and dry while enjoying the outdoors.  Check the weather forecast but be prepared for anything. 

• If you're heading into the backcountry, never travel alone.  Let someone know your route and estimated time of return. 

• Skiers and snowboarders should go on runs which are appropriate for their ability. Stay in control at all times and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.  Obey all posted signs and warnings.

• No matter what sport you participate in, always focus 100 percent of your attention on the activity and the terrain you are on.  And rest when you are tired. 

Winter is a fun time for children, but it also may be dangerous.  Parents should be aware of some simple safety tips for their children when they go sledding or skating:

• Children should never use streets or roads for sledding unless they are blocked off from traffic.

• Children should sled only during daytime hours.

• Do not sled on icy hills. Sledding hills should be only snow covered.

• Avoid sledding over snow bumps or anything that may cause the sled to become airborne.

• Never sled alone. Small children should always be accompanied by an adult.

• Children should stay out of the paths of other sledders. And if the slopes become busy, they should move off them quickly.

• If possible, skate at areas that have been approved and posted for ice skating.

• Never skate alone. Always have at least two people present.

• Children should never be allowed to skate on a pond unsupervised.

• Remember ice thickness is never consistent on lakes and ponds.  Water currents, particularly around narrow spots, bridges, inlets and outlets are always suspect for thin ice.

• Stay away from cracks, seams, pressure ridges, slushy areas and darker areas that signify thinner ice.

• Never skate after dark.

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• Ingesting anti-freeze can be fatal for your dog or cat.  It has a sweet taste and even a tiny amount can cause severe kidney damage and even death. If you spill some, soak it up immediately. (Clay kitty litter works well. Discard the litter once the anti-freeze has been absorbed.)

• Pets that live outdoors should be fed a bit more in the winter because they need the extra calories to stay warm. They also should have fresh water put out a couple of times a day, or consider a special bowl that prevents the water from freezing.

• If your pet goes outdoors, be aware of the temperature. Pets can get frostbite very easily on the ears, tail and paws.

• When walking your dog, check the paws to make sure that ice isn’t building up between the toes and that salt from the roads is not irritating the skin.

• If your dog is a swimmer, keep it on a leash around open water or unstable ice. Hypothermia can set in quickly and the dog may be unable to get out of the water.

• Before you start your car, you should honk the horn to make sure that a cat hasn’t decided to nap in a warm spot under the hood of the vehicle.

• If decorating for the holidays, keep ornaments out of the reach of your pets.  Remember that poinsettias, holly, mistletoe and other plants can be toxic if ingested.

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If someone you know is elderly or dependent on life-sustaining or health-related equipment such as a ventilator, respirator or oxygen concentrator, you should make plans now to ensure their needs are met during severe winter weather and possible power outages.

• Help them stock a home disaster kit including a flashlight and extra batteries, a battery-operated radio, bottled water, non-perishable  foods, essential medicines, and extra blankets or sleeping bags.

• Check on them during and after a storm or power outage.

• Register them as a special needs customer with their utility so they will become a priority customer.

• Notify others who could provide help such as neighbors, relatives, nearby friends and local emergency responders such as the fire department.

• Have a list of emergency numbers readily available.

• Have a standby generator or an alternative source of power available. Be aware of the safety rules for its use.

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This site is maintained by Westchester County, Office of the County Executive.

148 Martine Ave, White Plains, NY 10601.  www.westchestergov.com

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