Tips from RHHD on how to prepare for winter weather

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- As snowy weather hits Richmond, the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are providing tips to help the community prepare.

RHHD is issuing these winter weather tips to help prepare people for the winter storms. Officials are encouraging community members to prepare by creating emergency kits for their cars and homes and by understanding cold-weather hazards.

“Don’t let winter weather take you by surprise,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Acting Local Health Emergency Coordinator Alyssa Lewis. “Now is the time to make sure your home, family, friends, and neighbors are ready for the winter season. We encourage everyone to create basic kits for your home and vehicles, know what hazards affect your area, and know how to keep your loved ones safe. A little preparation now can prevent an emergency later.” 

RHHD is encouraging families to keep at least one emergency kit in the car and at home. Ready.gov offers a list for creating a basic necessities kit, and even with options for building a low-cost kit. Anyone who takes prescription medications is encouraged to store a few weeks' worth in their kit. If there is a baby in the home, you are encouraged to also add formula or breastmilk along with diapers and other necessities.

Another tip is to remember to stay warm but in a safe manner. Improperly using some heat sources can lead to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning or death. If the power goes out and it is below freezing temperatures, RHHD recommends these tips.

• Avoid using an oven or stovetop burner to heat your home.  
• Generators must stay outside the home and separated from the house. 
• If you become stranded in your car:
  • Remove snow from the exhaust pipe. 
  • For 10 minutes each hour, run the motor for heat.
  • While the motor is running, open a window facing the direction the wind is coming from for ventilation in order to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

RHHD also encourages people to write down the contact information and directions to their local Inclement Weather Shelter or warming center. The City of Richmond's Inclement Weather Shelter (IWS) is for single adult men and women.

Meanwhile, families may access the Community Resource & Training Center (CRTC). Both are located at 1900 Chamberlayne Parkway and open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

It is also important to check the weather conditions before driving on the roads. A wet day with freezing temperatures overnight can create potentially dangerous road conditions. People are also reminded to check their impairment before driving. This includes checking for drowsiness, drugs or alcohol before driving a vehicle.

For more information, check the Ready.gov winter ready page.