Wisconsinites are not intimidated when it comes to winter weather, it is a part of our heritage and favorite festivities. However, winter weather can significantly disrupt our lives, affect our finances, even injure or kill if precautions are not taken. November 9-13 is Winter Awareness Week in Wisconsin and this is an important time to reflect on our needs and ensure we have back up plans when the winter weather turns suddenly.
Snow has already come and gone in Lincoln County, but according to the National Weather Service, the average date for the first snowstorm in Wisconsin is November 10th. Lincoln County Emergency Management wants to focus this year on staying informed. Know where to go, to get the right information, can save valuable time, and a life.
Here are a few ideas in how you can stay informed this winter:
• The National Weather Service (NWS) has a wind-chill chart that incorporates the air temperature and wind speed. This calculation provides the approximate time it takes for frostbite to occur.
• September Murphy, Lincoln County Emergency Management Director, says her favorite tool for winter safety is to utilize 511 for current driving conditions. 511 Wisconsin is a 24/7 travel service provided through the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. You can visit the site on the web at www.511wi.gov or download it for free as a Smartphone app.
• Know your Power Company and procedures to report a power outage. Have the power company 24/7 phone number on hand to report when your power goes out. If you have a smart phone, some power companies have an online reporting system and can provide estimated restoration times. Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) and Taylor Electrical Cooperative covers most of Lincoln County’s resident’s power.
• Get a NOAA Weather Radio to alert you of all extreme weather conditions in your area. These radios are relatively inexpensive and have battery backup.
• Maintain your Carbon monoxide detectors. Carbon dioxide is the leading accidental poisoning according to the CDC.
• As always, listen to weather forecast regularly. Know the weather conditions for your current location and where you are traveling.
To further help you and your family get ready for winter weather, go to: https://co.lincoln.wi.us/emergency-management or follow us on Facebook.