Greene County Emergency Management: Get Ready for Old Man Winter

GREENE CO. – There will be no doubt Old Man Winter is here next week.

“The forecast now calls for temperatures to fall into the negative next Monday and Tuesday, January 15th and 16th. So now is the time to prepare,” said Roger Axe, Director of Greene County Emergency Management Agency. “First, while the weather is permissible, see that you have food, fuel, and medications. Visit the grocery store, fill your gas tank, and renew your prescriptions.”

If you live in a mobile home, check your heat tapes so your water pipes do not freeze. If you are
unsure about your pipes, leave a small stream of water running from the spout about the size of pencil lead.

Have an ice scraper, spray de-icer, and gas line anti-freeze for your vehicle. Next, spray the inside door locks on your vehicles to keep them from freezing shut. If possible, leave your vehicle unlocked during the coming cold snap to get the doors open better. Park your vehicles facing out to pull out better and avoid getting stuck in the snow.

During the cold snap, officials ask citizens to limit their driving for necessity only and limit or curtail unnecessary travel. If you do not have to travel, don’t.

Heat not only leaves the top of the head in cold weather but also the nape of the neck. A hooded
coat is best for cold weather. Jewelry is metal, and metal conducts cold, so you want to think twice about what you wear.

If you must travel, have your cell phone charged. Carry a blanket, a towel, an extra pair of
socks to change and dry your feet if they get wet, a flashlight, and a blanket. If you get stuck in the snow, ensure your tailpipe is clear of snow, or carbon monoxide can seep into your vehicle.

Run your engine every hour for 20 minutes, and during that time, crack your window to protect against carbon monoxide as you wait for rescue.

If you put your life at risk traveling and you need to be rescued, the rescuer is putting their life at risk

to save you. Let people know you are traveling so they can be on the lookout for you,” said Axe.
“Keeping a roof over your head is not cheap these days. It is the time of year to stay in and
appreciate your home and get your money’s worth. It is also an ideal time to visit your library
for a good book or movie. Stay safe by staying in.”