Representative Rick Allen

preparing for winter weather

Dear Neighbor,

As you know, a major winter storm is expected to bring significant impacts to parts of Georgia this weekend. With this in mind, Robin and I want to be sure that you and your loved ones have access to tips and resources that may be helpful before and during the storm. Being prepared helps keep everyone safe.

For your awareness, Governor Brian Kemp has declared a statewide State of Emergency in order to mobilize resources for this weather event. Additionally, see below for a list of tips from the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA):

BEFORE WINTER WEATHER:

A storm can occur when family members are in different places, so develop a family communications plan.
Make a Ready kit for at least three days of self-sufficiency.
Familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify winter weather.
Keep space heater safety in mind: Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches and non-glowing elements. Remember to keep all heat sources at least three feet away from furniture and drapes.
Prepare your home:
- Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and window sills to keep the warm air inside.
- Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector.
- If you have a wood burning fireplace, consider storing wood to keep you warm if winter weather knocks out your heat. Also, make sure you have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year.
- Have at least one of the following heat sources in case the power goes out:
  - Extra blankets, sleeping bags and warm winter coats
  - Fireplace or wood-burning stove with plenty of dry firewood, or a gas log fireplace
  - Kerosene heater, with proper ventilation.
Make sure you have a cell phone with an emergency charging option (car, solar, hand crank, etc.) in case of a power failure.
People who depend on electricity to operate medical equipment should have alternate arrangements in place in case power is out for an extended period of time.
Plan to check on elderly/disabled relatives and neighbors.
Plan to bring pets inside.
Know where the manual release lever of your electric garage door opener is located and how to operate it in case you lose power.
Fill a gallon container with water and place them in the freezer to help keep food cold.

DURING WINTER WEATHER:

Stay informed of winter weather watches and warnings. Also monitor commercial radio, television, and the Internet.
Bring pets inside.
Keep in mind that during a severe winter storm it could be hours, or even days, before emergency personnel are able to reach you. Don’t call 911 for information or to report a power outage.
Allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing.
Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to uninsulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.
Winter storms are often accompanied by power outages. Always exercise caution when using alternative light and heating sources:
- Use flashlights during power outages instead of candles to prevent the risk of fire, and have plenty of extra batteries on-hand.
- Never use an oven to heat your home. Never bring portable generators, camp stoves and grills into your home; they should only be used outside. Keep them at least 20 feet away from your home’s windows, doors and vents to prevent deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.
Follow tips for keeping food safe in an emergency.
Follow directions from local officials about driving during snow and ice storms, and drive with caution.

My office and I will continue to diligently monitor weather updates and the potential impacts in counties throughout the 12th District. Please do not hesitate to contact one of my offices if you are in need of assistance. Stay safe! To unsubscribe, click here.

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Sincerely,

Rick Allen
Member of Congress