Winter can be a beautiful time of year in Pennsylvania, but downed power lines, ice storms, frozen water pipes and blizzards can turn peaceful settings into dangerous situations at home and on the road.

The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency says it’s important to prepare for winter weather before it strikes and offers these tips.

At home during a winter storm, PEMA recommends having drinking water, a first-aid kit, canned/no-cook food, a non-electric can opener, battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries available in an easily-accessible place. If prescription or over-the-counter medicines are needed, get an extra supply.

Also, know how public warnings are issued on radio and television and learn what each kind of broadcast weather alert means. For example:

· “Winter weather advisory” means weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous, especially to motorists;

· “Winter storm watch” means be alert, a storm is likely;

· “Winter storm warning” means take action, a storm is in, or entering, the area; and

· “Blizzard warning” means snow and strong winds will produce near-zero visibility, deep drifts, and life-threatening wind chill -- seek refuge immediately.

To keep warm at home--

· Dress in several layers of loosely fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Outer garments, like hats, mittens, scarves, and boots, should be tightly woven and water-repellent.

· Properly insulate walls and attics. Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows. Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside. Protect pipes by wrapping them in insulation and let faucets drip to prevent freezing.

· Fireplace and wood stove chimneys should be inspected annually to make sure the residue left by burning wood has not accumulated.

· Consider buying emergency heating equipment, such as a wood- or coal-burning stove or kerosene heater, as a backup.

· Keep kerosene and propane heaters at least three feet away from combustible substances, like furniture, blankets and rugs. Never substitute one type of fuel for another.

· Run generators outside only. Open windows and fans do not provide enough ventilation to prevent the build-up of carbon monoxide.

Traveling with winter in mind--

· Avoid driving during a winter storm or blizzard warning. If travel is necessary, do it in daylight and don’t travel alone.

· Keep cars and other vehicles fueled and in good repair.

· Make sure batteries, ignition systems, thermostats, lights, flashers, exhausts, heaters, brakes, defrosters and tires of vehicles are working. Check antifreeze, windshield washer fluid and oil levels.

· Pack a shovel, ice scraper, flashlight, battery-powered radio, extra batteries, water, snacks, hats and mittens, blankets, tow chains or ropes, road salt and sand, booster cables, emergency flares and a fluorescent distress flag in vehicles.

· Drive only at speeds dictated by conditions and increase distances between vehicles.

· Share travel schedules and routes and stay on main roads. Carry a cell phone.

For more information, visit the PEMA website.

12/9/2005