BOONE, N.C. — Dec. 3-9, 2023 is Winter Weather Preparedness Week, and state and local officials are urging North Carolinians to get ready.
What You Need To Know
Winter Weather Preparedness Week runs from Dec. 3-9, 2023
Cold temperatures continue after the mountains saw snow on Wednesday
Business owners say it’s important to prepare as much as you can before the weather hits
It happened over and over Wednesday morning. Snow came down hard, covered the roads and then disappeared, leaving behind a messy and sometimes slippery situation. Plow trucks were working hard to keep the roads clear, but it’s important to do your part to prepare as well.
“North Carolina weather can be challenging, especially in winter when extreme cold increases your risks,” Gov. Roy Cooper said in a release Monday.
“The best way to meet these challenges is to prepare by updating emergency preparedness kits and staying informed by paying attention to trusted and official sources of information regarding weather forecasts and alerts,” the governor said.
Cooper said people should make a family emergency plan and make sure to review it reguarly. “And don’t forget your pets, if you’re cold, they are as well,” he said.
Bernie Knepka is the business manager for Fred’s General Mercantile on Beech Mountain.
“It was started 45 years ago as a one-stop-shop for people,” Knepka said.
He says they are used to having snow and very cold temperatures, so the store carries everything needed to help get you prepared.
“We have what are called Yak Tracks. I call these snow chains for your feet,” Knepka said. “Once you get below zero, it doesn’t make a difference as long as the wind doesn’t blow.”
The store also carries a spray that helps thaw out your car locks and fire logs, which Knepka says are important in case the power goes out.
“That’s what I do. We build a fire and get the sleeping bags and make a camping night out of it,” Knepka said.
They have ropes, warm boots and jackets. Knepka says whether you live in the area or are visiting to ski, it’s important to always be prepared.
“First and foremost, pay attention to the weather reports. We have six inches of snow and we have people coming in open to toes asking where to buy boots,” Knepka said.
North Carolina Emergency Management also has the following tips and information to help get you prepared for this winter.
- Always keep at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food and a supply of medication in your home
- Keep fresh batteries on hand for weather radios and flashlights
- Dress warmly. Wear multiple layers of thin clothing instead of a single layer of thick clothing
- Properly vent kerosene heaters and ensure any electric generators are operated outside and away from open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Never burn charcoal indoors
- Use a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio or a weather alert app on your phone to monitor changing weather conditions
- Keep alternative heating sources and fire extinguishers on hand. Be sure your family knows how to use them
- Store an emergency kit in your vehicle. Include scraper, jumper cables, tow chain, sand/salt, blankets, flashlight, first-aid kit and road map
- Make an emergency supplies kit for your pet and include medical records, first-aid kit, enough canned/dry food and water for three to seven days and pet travel bag or carrier
- Do not leave pets outside for long periods of time
- Ensure your pet has a well-fitting collar
- Bring pets inside when temperatures drop below freezing
- Move livestock and other animals to a sheltered location with food and water
Safety officials also recommend only traveling if you must during bad weather and remind motorists to leave plenty of room between you and other vehicles. If you are driving on roadways covered in ice or snow, you should also remember to reduce your speed and, if conditions worsen, pull off the highway and stay in your vehicle.
Officials say you should not set out on foot unless you can see a building close by where you can take shelter.