The winter storm that is coming for the weekend looks to be more of an ice than snow event, plus anything that falls will be with us for several days due to the cold temperatures that will be in place through Tuesday. I have talked with the county, the Cooleemee Fire Department and Duke Power. All three have made plans to have people in place to deal with whatever comes up during the storm. They all say one important thing we can do is to plan ahead and not be out on the roads after the event starts. Travel will be treacherous with all the ice that is coming. The safety tips below are a good guideline to help in preparation.
Important safety tips
Be sure to have a plan in place if you lose power for an extended period of time, especially if you or a family member relies on electricity for medical needs. This is especially important in a winter storm when travel conditions could be hazardous. Please consider the following reminders.
- Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized, as well as trees, limbs, fences, or anything in contact with lines.
- Ensure mobile phones remain charged, and you have an adequate supply of flashlights, batteries, bottled water, nonperishable foods, and medicines.
- If you use a generator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe and proper operation. Operate your generator outside, and never in a building or garage.
- Do not use grills or other outdoor appliances indoors for space heating or cooking, as these devices may emit carbon monoxide.
- If a power line falls across a car that you’re in, stay in the car. If you MUST exit the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.
- Winter storms can result in hazardous driving conditions. Stay off the road if possible, but if you must travel, watch for utility crews working along the road restoring power. Move over or slow down and give them room to work safely.
Please think about all the fire fighters, sheriff deputies, county employees, and Duke Power employees that will be working during the next several days to help keep us safe.
Stay warm and stay safe.
Mayor Smith