Officials offer safety tips for use during storm

The National Weather Service, a division of the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, has forecast more severe winter weather over the weekend.

When severe weather is anticipated, NOAA suggests, everyone should listen to NOAA Weather Radio or commercial radio/television to stay informed about winter storm watches, warnings and advisories.

NOAA's National Severe Storms Laboratory also offers a list of recommended preparations for possible severe winter weather.

At home and at work, plan ahead for winter storms by having these items on hand: A flashlight and extra batteries; a battery-powered NOAA weather radio; extra water; high-energy food such as dried fruit, nuts, granola bars and food that doesn't require refrigeration; food and shelter for pets; an emergency heat source; a fire extinguisher; and a smoke alarm.

For those who have pets or live on farms, NOAA offers these additional recommendations: Move animals to sheltered areas. Properly laid out and oriented shelter belts offer better protection for cattle than confining shelters such as sheds. Haul extra feed to nearby feeding areas. Have water available -- most animals that die in winter storms do so from dehydration. Make sure the animals have plenty of food, water and shelter.

People who are already indoors during hazardous winter weather should stay inside; close off unneeded rooms; maintain energy and hydration by eating and drinking; cover windows at night to conserve heat; and wear light, loose-fitting layers of warm clothes. When using alternate heat from a fireplace, wood stove, space heater, etc., use fire safety precautions and be sure to ventilate properly.

Everyone is potentially at risk during winter storms. NOAA said most fatalities are indirectly related to the storm. People who die in winter storms most often are the victims of traffic accidents on icy roads, heart attacks while shoveling snow, or hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold.

NOAA said those who must be outside should dress appropriately during severe winter weather. That means wearing loose, lightweight, warm clothes in layers, so they can remove clothing a layer at a time if they become too warm. This helps to avoid perspiration, which can dampen the skin and cause a chill. Outer garments should be of tightly woven material, water repellent, and hooded. Hats are advised; half the body's heat can be lost through a bare head. Keeping the mouth covered with a mask or scarf can protect the lungs from severe cold. Mittens, snug at the wrist, keep the hands warmer than gloves do.

Above all, try to remain dry and cover all exposed body parts.

If stranded outdoors, find or build a shelter -- a snow cave, a lean-to or a shelter belt -- that will provide protection from the wind. Build a fire for warmth and to attract attention. Place rocks around the fire to absorb and radiate heat. Melt snow for drinking water, but don't eat it while it's frozen because that will lower the body's temperature. Don't overexert.

Before starting out in a vehicle during severe winter weather, plan the trip in advance, checking the weather and road conditions. Kansas road conditions are available by dialing 511 within the state or (888) 511-KDOT. Missouri road conditions are available by calling (888) ASK MODOT. Both the Kansas and Missouri transportation departments offer road condition information online, as well.

Let someone know the planned travel route and timetable. Prepare a winter storm survival kit including first-aid supplies, food and water, blankets, water purification tablets, a whistle, a flashlight, extra batteries, a cell phone and charger, a knife, extra clothing, a large empty can (emergency toilet), tissue and paper towels, a small can and matches for melting drinking water, a bag of sand or cat litter for traction, a shovel, a windshield scraper, a tool kit, a tow rope, jumper cables, a compass, and road maps. A GPS (global positioning system) unit is a suggested option.

Avoid traveling alone and, while on the road, keep the fuel tank as full as possible to avoid ice buildup in the tank and the fuel lines.

Sometimes travelers become stranded in their vehicles during hazardous winter weather. NOAA's suggestions for those occasions are as follows: Stay with the vehicle, take turns sleeping, run the motor for warmth each hour for 10 minutes only, keep windows slightly open to prevent carbon monoxide buildup, keep exhaust pipe unblocked, tie a bright cloth to the antenna, turn on the dome light at night while the motor is running to attract attention, and exercise periodically by moving all appendages vigorously. When snow is no longer falling, raise the car hood to indicate a need for assistance.