Winter Safety Awareness Week Highlights Seasonal Readiness

ZANESVILLE, OH – Winter is just around the corner, and this week is Winter Safety Awareness Week.

Winter in Ohio brings a variety of conditions, from snow and freezing rain to flooding and blizzard-like winds. Winter activities can be fun, but severe weather can quickly turn dangerous. That’s why officials are encouraging residents to plan ahead. Making an emergency plan, building a kit with essentials, and practicing your plan can make all the difference during severe weather.

“Plan to be ready for whatever happens. Have a plan in place as to how you are going to handle your family and pets if we get large amounts of snow or ice. Ice is normally a bigger problem for us in this area. This week is Winter Weather Safety Awareness Week, so, we want everybody to be ready for it,” Muskingum County EMA Director Jeff Jadwin said.

Emergency kits should include basics like water, food, and flashlights, but don’t forget personal items like medications and pet supplies. Residents are also encouraged to monitor weather updates and avoid travel during extreme conditions.

“You need to have an emergency kit. You need to have the stuff in it that you may need if your power goes out or if you’re traveling and you get stranded. Have stuff with you. Put a blanket in the car so that if you’re involved in a crash or if you’re broke down, you can stay warm until help can arrive,” Jadwin said.

Don’t wait for the snow to start falling, prepare now for a safer winter season. For more tips and resources, visit the website below.

Winter Safety Awareness Week | Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness