Prepare for severe conditions before winter weather hits

Winter in Wisconsin, can be a time for fun outdoors, but the snow, ice and cold can also be dangerous for those who are not ready for them. To help prepare everyone for what to expect in the months ahead, Nov. 15-19, is Winter Awareness Week in Wisconsin.

“Preparing for winter should begin before the first snowflakes fall,” said Wisconsin Emergency Management acting administrator Greg Engle. “Winter Awareness Week is a great time to brush up on your winter driving skills, get your furnace serviced and make sure home emergency kits are fully supplied.”

According to the National Weather Service, Wisconsin experiences an average of three to six winter storms during the season. Land o’ Lakes, in Vilas County, recorded 83.2 inches of snow last winter, giving it the highest seasonal snowfall total in the state.

The coldest temperature recorded in Wisconsin, was minus 41 degrees Feb. 15, in Barnes, located in Bayfield County.

One of the best ways to stay safe during the winter months, is to stay informed about the weather. Follow the forecast from the National Weather Service and other trusted local sources, then be prepared when winter storms are expected.

Stock up on additional supplies, make sure to have an emergency kit at home and in the vehicle, and have a plan for what to do if power is lost at home.

Winter emergency kits should include items such as food, water, a flashlight and batteries, and blankets. In the vehicle, include a snow shovel, extra gloves and hats, cell phone charger, and kitty litter or sand, to help give wheels traction on icy roads, if the car gets stuck.

Prepare the home, as well, by making sure the furnace is serviced regularly. Check entry points and windows for signs they are allowing cold air into the home. Ensure carbon monoxide detectors are working properly and have fresh batteries.

Keep any free-standing heating devices away from curtains or other objects that could catch fire.

Ice and snow on the roads remain a major threat to drivers throughout the state, each winter. Between 2016-20, the WisDOT says the state averaged about 41 fatalities and 3,950 injuries each year, because of winter driving conditions.

“During winter, drivers should check the weather and road conditions before they head out,” said Engle. “If you don’t need to be on the road during a severe winter storm, then stay home. If that’s not an option, carry an emergency kit in your vehicle, drive slow in treacherous conditions, and let people know where you are going and when you expect to arrive.”

To help stay safe in the vehicle, remain distraction-free while driving and adjust speed for current conditions.

Check travel conditions for most major roadways in the state, before leaving home, by using 511 Wisconsin. This information, along with live traffic cameras and traffic alerts, is accessible through the free 511 Wisconsin mobile app, on Twitter, or the mobile-friendly site 511wi.gov.