Wet Winter Coming For Ohio: Tips To Stay Safe, Warm

OHIO — While much of Ohio enjoys an unseasonably warm mid-November, forecasters continue to predict a "wetter-than-usual" winter for the Buckeye State.

The Great Lakes region and Ohio Valley region — which includes the Buckeye State — will likely suffer a wetter-than-average winter, according to long-range forecasts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. While Ohio will see more precipitation than usual this winter, the forecast also projects a warmer-than-usual season this year, so it's unclear how much snow we'll get.

With conditions likely to worsen, the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness has several tips for staying safe and warm this season.

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Be Prepared

"Take time to restock your emergency supply kits, ensure your home and vehicles are prepped and maintained and review your emergency plans. Also, it’s not too late to get vaccinations to protect yourself and family from influenza and the coronavirus," said Ohio Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Sima Merick.

Practice fire safety & prevention

Ohioans will spend more time indoors during the winter season, both because of weather and the holidays. With more cooking, decorating and entertaining on deck, the chance for indoor fires increases.

• Cooking-related fires are the number-one cause of house fires. Don't leave cooking food unattended.
• Do not keep towels, potholders or paper products near stoves.
• Make sure your smoke detectors are working. Test them monthly.
• Conduct fire drills with your family.
• Change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors twice a year.
• Keep auxiliary heaters, furnaces and fireplaces checked or serviced before you use them.

Get the House Ready

• Cut down low-hanging and dead tree branches near your house.
• Get your gutters cleaned. Snow and ice can build up quickly if the drains are clogged, which can cause additional damage.

Get Emergency Supply Kits for Your Home, Vehicle

“We need to be mindful that preparing for winter is not just getting ready for snow and ice,” Merick said. “Just last month, a total of six tornadoes touched down in Ross, Highland, and Pickaway counties. We truly need to be prepared for all weather and home emergencies.”

• Check expiration dates on nonperishable food, bottled water and other beverages, and medications.
• Get flashlights, extra batteries, blankets, coats, hats, gloves, a battery-operated radio, first aid kit, cell phone and charger, and nonperishable food and water to take care of your house for one several days.
• Store food and bottled water and supplies for your pets too.