County Executive George Latimer Holds Briefing On Upcoming Winter Storm

You may also go to YouTube to watch the full briefing.

County Executive George Latimer held a briefing today outlining Westchester’s actions in response to the forecast of a major winter storm that is expected to bring significant snowfall to the County Wednesday night and Thursday.

Latimer and other County officials urged County residents to prepare now for the storm. Downed trees and power lines, power outages, coastal flooding and dangerous travel conditions are among the potential impacts that severe winter storms can bring.

The County’s Department of Emergency Services and the Health Department offer practical advice to help residents prepare for a major winter storm and stay safe during and after. 

Before the storm arrives:

  • Have plenty of batteries on hand for flashlights and battery-powered radios. Keep them where you can find them easily if the power goes out at night.
  • Keep cell phones and other important electronic devices fully charged.
  • Turn the freezer and refrigerator to the highest setting. This will preserve food longer if power goes out.
  • Assemble a three-day supply of water and non-perishable foods, needed medications, and extra clothing and blankets. Have a go-bag ready in case you must leave your home.

During the storm:

  • Remain indoors if possible.
  • Stay off the roads.
  • Do not walk or drive close to snow plows; it is difficult for plow operators to see you.
  • Do not go near, or drive over, downed power lines.
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using alternate heating sources like space heaters and wood burning stoves
  • Do not place a space heater within three feet of anything that may catch on fire, such as drapes, furniture or bedding, on top of furniture or near water, and never cover your space heater.
  • Never leave children or pets unattended near a space heater, fireplace or wood burning stove.

If the power goes out:

  • Call the local utility company to inform it of the power outage. Con Edison’s 24-hour hotline is 1-800-75-CONED (752-6633) and NYSEG's hotline service is 1-800-572-1131.
  • Leave a light on to let you know when power has been restored.
  • Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns instead of candles, as candles are a fire hazard.
  • Limit opening the refrigerator and freezer doors as much as possible.
  • Do not operate electrical generators indoors (this includes the garage) as it could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use them outside in a well-ventilated area, far away and downwind from your home.
  • If you use a fireplace, wood stove or portable kerosene heater to stay warm, be sure to adequately ventilate to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide build up in your home. Never use a natural gas or propane stove to heat your home.
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using alternate heating sources like space heaters and wood burning stoves
  • Do not place a space heater within three feet of anything that may catch on fire, such as drapes, furniture or bedding, on top of furniture or near water, and never cover your space heater.
  • Never leave children or pets unattended near a space heater, fireplace or wood burning stove.
  • Never use the stove or gas range in your kitchen to heat your home.

After the storm:

  • Dress warmly in windproof clothing to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
  • Wear several layers of loose-fitting clothing to trap body heat. Remember gloves, scarves and a hat that covers the ears
  • Shovel snow in moderation, particularly if you have any medical condition or you do not exercise regularly. Clear snow off the roof of your car to avoid creating a hazard for other drivers. Do not shovel snow from driveways and sidewalks into the street.
  • Never start or operate a snow blower or chain saw in your garage.
  • Clear the area around hydrants near your property, if possible.
  • Before driving, clear snow from vehicle windows and roofs.
  • Be on the lookout for falling ice and snow from roofs and gutters. When a lot of heavy snow and ice has accumulated on roofs, do not stand under structures that are not well-supported.
  • During a prolonged power outage, these foods are potentially hazardous if not stored below 41 degrees Fahrenheit and should be discarded: meat, poultry, seafood, cold cuts, hot dogs, eggs, cream, sour cream, yogurt, milk, custards, puddings, soft and shredded cheeses, cut fruit, cooked vegetables, pasta, casseroles, unbaked cookie and bread dough, gravy, creamy salad dressings, fish sauces, hoisin sauce, opened spaghetti sauce and garlic in oil. Remember, when in doubt, throw it out.