Staying safe during a Winter Storm

ZANESVILLE, Ohio- The Red Cross wants to make sure everyone is safe with the possible winter storm coming up in the next few days.

Muskingum County could get up to a foot of snow on Tuesday and Wednesday. Executive Director for the Southeastern Ohio American Red Cross Marlene Henderson said staying inside, in the warmth, is the best option if you can do it. She said if you use an alternative heating method to make sure it’s done safely.

“They’re called space heaters for a reason. They have to have space around them. Don’t ever put them up against furniture. They make some now, the cubes, that are pretty safe. But you still don’t want to go to bed with it on or leave the room,” said Henderson.

Henderson said a lot of people don’t have the luxury of staying inside all day. She said if the roads are snow covered, or icy, to make sure you slow down and to know that going slower could save your life.

“When you get in the car, make sure that you got it cleaned off and warmed up. Stay in it and warm your car up before you put it in gear to go. This time of year there’s a lot of black ice out and just slow down a little bit. Leave a little bit earlier so you’ve got plenty of time and just take it slow and easy,” said Henderson.

Henderson suggested everyone carry a whistle in their car. If you are in an accident, and can’t be found, the whistle will be heard. It is much easier to do for hours as compared to yelling.