- Do you have working smoke alarms in your home on every level and next to every bedroom?

- Do you have a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm on each level and by each bedroom?

- Do you have a plan in case the alarms are activated and you need to leave in a hurry?

- Do you have plans in place if school is closed and the kids need to be somewhere safe with someone?

- Have you had your furnace and chimney checked for safe use over the winter?

- Keep your pantry and cabinets stocked with foods that you can turn to when getting out to shop is not possible.

- Stock up on batteries for your lanterns or flashlights and store drinking water in case the power goes out. 

- Never use a generator inside your home or garage. It needs to be outside and well vented away from your home.

- When out driving in winter weather, plan to take along a "survival kit" in case you get stranded and need to stay with your vehicle. Keep your vehicle in good working order for winter driving. 

- Snowy and icy roads require vigilant driving skills. Remember, the road may look clear, but you could be driving on black ice that will send your vehicle off in another direction quickly. 

- Remember to bundle up those kids so they are not exposed to bitter cold that can cause frostbite or hypothermia. Cover the head, neck, hands, and feet to keep them from getting wet and cold. Dressing in layers also helps insulate from cold temperatures.

- If you do not need to go out in bad weather, stay home and plan a trip for another day. If you really need something at the store, ask someone who is already out to bring that item to you. 

For weather alerts, read on:  https://www.weather.gov/wrn/winter_safety