Stay Safe This Winter in Waukee

What can you do to keep you and your family safe this winter? Follow these tips from the Polk County Emergency Management office.

Get Educated

Not sure of the difference between winter storm jargon? Once you learn the difference, it will be easier to tell what kind of weather we have in store.

• Winter Weather Advisory - cold, ice and snow are expected.

• Winter Storm Watch - severe winter weather such as heavy snow or ice is possible within the next day or two.

• Winter Storm Warning - severe winter conditions have begun or are about to begin.

• Blizzard Warning - heavy snow and strong winds will produce a blinding snow, near zero visibility, deep drifts and life-threatening wind chill.

• Frost/Freeze Warning - below freezing temperatures are expected

Staying Safe in Your Home

There are lots of easy and quick things you can do to make sure your home is prepared for winter weather.

• Make sure your emergency supply kit is stocked and winter storm ready.

• Consider buying rock salt to melt ice on walkways and sand to improve traction.

• Make sure you have sufficient heating fuel in the event regular fuel sources may be cut off.

• Consider purchasing emergency heating equipment and fuel (a gas fireplace, wood burning stove, kerosene heater, or fireplace) so you can keep at least one room of your house warm enough to be livable.

• Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply. Insulate walls, attics, doors and windows. Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic.

What You Should Have in Your Home's Emergency Supply Kit

Some of these items you may already have on hand, but others can be relatively inexpensive to purchase.

• One gallon of water per person per day
• Food and manual can opener
• A week’s supply of prescription medication
• Battery powered radio with extra batteries
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• A list of contacts with family members, friends, doctors
• First aid supplies

Supplies You Should Keep in Your Car

Your home isn't the only place you should prepare in the event winter weather leaves you stranded. Your car also should be well-equipped with essential survival items.

• Flashlights with extra batteries
• Maps
• First aid kit with pocket knife
• Necessary medications
• Tire repair kit
• Flares
• Several blankets
• Sleeping bags
• Extra newspapers for insulation
• Plastic bags (for sanitation)
• Matches
• Extra set of mittens, socks, and a wool cap
• Rain gear and extra clothes
• Small sack of sand for generating traction under wheels
• Small shovel
• Small tools (pliers, wrench, screwdriver)
• Booster cables
• Set of tire chains or traction mats
• Cards, games, and puzzles
• Brightly colored cloth to use as a flag
• Granola bars, canned fruit and nuts
• Non-electric can opener
• Bottled water