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Nebraska - 800-906-9069
When caught in a winter storm…..Find Shelter
Try to stay dry
Cover all exposed parts of the body
- Prepare a lean-to, windbreak, or snow cave for protection from the wind
- Build a fire for heat to attract attention
- Place rocks around the fire to absorb the reflect heat.
- Do not eat snow. It will lower your body temperature. Melt it first.
In a car or truck
- Stay in your car or truck
- Disorientation occurs quickly in wind-driven snow and cold.
- Run the motor about ten minutes each hour for heat.
- Open the window a little for fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked.
- Make yourself visible to rescuers.
- Turn on the dome light at night when running the engine.
- Tie a colored cloth (preferably red) to your antenna or door.
- Raise the hood indicating trouble after snow stops falling.
- Exercise from time to time by vigorously moving arm, legs, fingers, and toes to keep blood circulating and to keep warm.
- Stay inside
- When using an alternate heat source , such as a fireplace, wood stove, or a space heater, practice fire safeguards and properly ventilate.
- If you do not have heat inside, close off unneeded rooms, stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors, and cover the windows at night.
- Eat and drink. Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat. Keep the body replenished with fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing.
- Remove layers to avoid overheating, perspiration, and subsequent chill.
KEEP AHEAD OF THE STORM by listening to local radio, TV and NOAA Weather Radio, for the latest winter storm watches, warning, and advisories.
What to listen for
Winter Storm Watch – Severe winter conditions. Such as heavy snow and/or ice, are possible within the next day or two. Prepare now!
Winter Storm Warning - Severe winter conditions have begun or are about to begin in your area. Stay indoors!
Blizzard Warning - Snow and strong winds will combine to produce a blinding snow (near zero visibility), deep drifts, and life-threatening wind chill. Seek refuge immediately!
Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. If caution is exercised, these situation should not become life-threatening. The greatest hazard is often to motorists.
Frost/Freeze Warning - Below freezing temperatures are expected and may cause significant damage to plants, crops, or fruit trees.
On the farm… Move animals to sheltered areas. Properly laid out shelter belts are better protection for cattle than confining shelters, such as sheds. Haul extra feed to nearby feeding areas. Have a water supply available. Most animal deaths in winter storms are from dehydration.
National Weather Service/Topeka