With winter upon us, Appalachian has a “Winter Storm Ready” site with great information to keep you safe, warm and ready for winter!

http://em.emergency.appstate.edu/winter-storm-ready

Check out the some of the following topics:

1. Winter Driving Safety
   1. Clear: Remove any snow on your vehicle’s windows, lights, brake lights and signals.
   2. Inspect: Check your vehicle’s tires, wiper blades, fluids, lights, belts and hoses.
   3. Time: Allow plenty of time to reach your destination safely.
   4. Visibility: Stay attentive and reduce speed. Know what’s going on around you.
   5. Speed: The faster you’re going, the longer it will take to stop; take it slow to avoid slipping or sliding.
   6. Ice and Snow, Take it Slow.
   7. Black Ice: You cannot see black ice on the road. Take it slow when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges or shady areas.
   8. Distance: Leave extra room between you and the vehicle in front of you.
   9. Brake: Brake early, brake slowly- never slam on the brakes.
2. Winter Heating Safety
   1. Keep anything that can burn at least three feet from heat sources.
   2. Never use your oven to heat your home.
   3. Make sure your heating equipment and chimneys are cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
   4. Turn off portable heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.
   5. Fireplaces need a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
   6. Test smoke alarms monthly.
   7. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
   8. Install and maintain CO alarms to avoid the risk of CO poisoning.