Arlington County Schools Make Weather Decision For March 21

ARLINGTON, VA — With the area under a winter storm warning — even though it's officially spring — all Arlington County Public Schools and offices will be closed Wednesday, March 21. All school and community activities in school buildings also are canceled. All administrative offices are closed.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning that includes the D.C. area and Northern Virginia and is calling for big snowfall totals.

The warning lasts from 2 a.m. until 8 p.m. Wednesday and calls for 4 to 8 inches.

Preparing for the Storm

Check with neighbors or elderly family members who may require special assistance, to see if they need help in stocking up on supplies or medications, and call them during the storm. If there is a power outage, be prepared by having enough food, water, medication (if needed) and batteries to last at least two days. Make sure portable radios, smoke detectors and flashlights are working properly. Make shelter, food, water and medication preparations for pets and livestock.

Drivers are urged to help clear the way for snow plow operators. When parking on-street, pull close to the curb on the even numbered side of the street. Park vehicles in driveways, or off the street, whenever possible. Plan where you will park if a State or County Snow Emergency is declared, making parking illegal on those roads. Drivers may park in County public-parking garages and lots for free during a snow emergency.

Be sure your vehicle(s) are ready to drive after the storm by filling the gas tank; checking tires to make sure they have an adequate tread and are fully inflated; checking oil, antifreeze and windshield washer fluid levels; and ensuring windshield wipers, lights, flashing hazard lights, exhaust system, heater, brakes and defroster are all working. Keep a windshield scraper, small shovel and broom in the car for ice and snow removal, and a small sack of sand or kitty litter to improve wheel traction.

During the Storm

Power Outages:

• Treat all "dark" intersections as four-way stops. Stop - then proceed cautiously.
• During a power outage, relying on battery-operated lights, rather than candles, is much safer. Using candles increases the risk of a fire.
• Refrigerated food will remain unspoiled only about four hours if the refrigerator is unopened. A full freezer will hold the temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed. Use ice to keep your refrigerator at 40°F or below and the freezer at 0° or lower if there is a prolonged power outage.

It can be fatal to use gas or charcoal grills, propane heaters and stoves, kerosene space heaters or generators indoors. These items are a source of carbon monoxide, which can build up indoors and cause carbon monoxide poisoning.

Add more closings in the comments, and send me your snow pictures at cameron.luttrell@patch.com.

Image via Shutterstock