MADISON (WKOW) -- With the snow falling on Wednesday and the bitter cold temps expected on Thursday, it's a great time to make sure you and your family are prepared for winter conditions that could threaten your safety.
"The number one thing to do: make sure you have an emergency supply kit in your car; it could save your life," said Tod Pritchard, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator at WEM.
Pritchard says the kit could save your life because you never know when you might be stranded in a storm.
WEM says your kit should include:
- Blankets or sleeping bags Flashlight with extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Shovel, booster cables and windshield scraper
- Non-perishable food like raisins and energy bars
- Water
- Sand or cat litter for traction
- Cell phone adapter
You can find out the latest road conditions by visiting the Wisconsin Department of Transportation travel information website or by calling 511.
WEM says it's also important to be prepared at home. Some of the dangers associated with winter storms include loss of heat, power and telephone service and a shortage of supplies.
To help protect your family, WEM says you should put together a disaster supply kit.
Here are some items to include in your home safety kit:
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Flashlights and extra batteries
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Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and a commercial radio
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Bottled water and non-perishable food that requires no cooking
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First-aid supplies
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Fire extinguisher, smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector
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If appropriate, extra medications and baby items
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If you have an emergency heating source such as a fireplace or space heater, make sure you have proper ventilation
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Make sure pets have shelter and plenty of food and water
For more information on how to make an emergency plan click here. You'll find preparedness tips and winter weather facts.
Pritchard joins us on 27 News at 5 on Wednesday to talk about winter safety.
