Are You Prepared For Winter Weather

Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus, along with the Orange County Department of Health (OCDOH), has initiated an emergency preparedness alert for the upcoming winter season, following comprehensive seasonal monitoring and the recent findings of heightened winter storm activity risks.

"It is crucial that we prepare ourselves and our families for any potential winter emergencies that may come our way," said Neuhaus. "Whether it's stocking up on essential supplies or creating an emergency plan for you and your loved ones, being prepared is key."

While traveling in wintery conditions is never ideal, preparedness will help you get to your destination safe and sound. Please follow the direction of Orange County Emergency Management and Law Enforcement regarding the safety of the roads in winter conditions, especially when advised to stay off the roads.

"We want everyone to feel confident and ready as we head into the winter months," said Bryan Welsh, Director of Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response. "A little bit of planning, including preparing your home, vehicle, and emergency kit, can go a long way in protecting you and your family if severe weather strikes."

Follow These Guidelines to Prepare:

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• Prepare Your Home: Insulate windows and doors, check heating systems, and have an alternative heating source such as a fireplace or wood stove with a good supply of wood.
• Emergency Kits: Maintain a home emergency kit that includes water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a first aid kit, and medications.
• Plan for Power Outages: Have a supply of flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio to stay informed during power outages. Consider purchasing a generator for essential electricity supply.
• Travel Safety: Keep your vehicle's gas tank full to prevent the fuel line from freezing. Equip your car with winter tires, blankets, a shovel, snow brush, and road salt.

"Don't wait until it's too late and then regret not being prepared," said Neuhaus. "This is a reminder to stock up on emergency supplies, check your heating systems, and be sure to check in on your elderly relatives and neighbors. Don't let the winter weather catch you off guard."

Residents seeking further information about preparing for the winter or looking for updates on weather advisories can contact the Orange County Department of Health Emergency Preparedness and Response by phone at (845) 615-3891 and online: https://www.orangecountygov.com/504/Emergency-Preparedness

For more information, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to County Executive, Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845.291.2700 or [email protected].

To learn more about what County Executive Neuhaus is doing for Orange County, follow Orange County Government and Steven M. Neuhaus on Facebook, @Orange County NY Govt and @steve.neuhaus on Instagram, and @OCGovNY and @SNeuhausOC on X. You can also watch Neuhaus' NeuCast podcasts and Leadership Speaker Series on YouTube.

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