BE PREPARED FOR WINTER WEATHER

Winter weather can happen anywhere in New York. Here in Rochester we are one of the snowiest cities in the North East. That is way it is important to be prepared for winter storms which often bring dangerously low temperatures, strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

One of the primary concerns is the winter weather's ability to knock out heat, power and communications services to your home or office, sometimes for days at a time. Heavy snowfall, ice and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region, so it’s important to be prepared for winter weather before it strikes.

Winterize Your Emergency Toolkit
Add the following supplies to your emergency kit:

Rock salt or more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways

Sand to improve traction

Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment

Sufficient heating fuel, like dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove

Adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm​

Be Weather Aware
Watches and Warnings are issued by the National Weather Service​. Be familiar with each so you’ll know what to do when a watch or warning is issued.

Winter Storm Watch
A Winter Storm Watch is issued when there is a potential for heavy snow or significant ice accumulations, usually at least 24 to 36 hours in advance. When a winter storm watch is issued, make your final preparations for the potential storm. 

Winter Storm Warning
A Winter Storm Warning is issued when a winter storm is already producing, or is forecast to produce heavy snow or significant ice accumulations. 

During the Winter Storm
Stay indoors during the storm 

Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather

Conserve fuel, if necessary, by keeping your residence cooler than normal. Temporarily close off heat to some rooms

Walk carefully on snowy, icy walkways

Drive only if it is absolutely necessary. If you must drive be sure of the following:

keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle

travel in the day and if at all possible, don't travel alone

keep others informed of your schedule

stay on main roads and avoid back road shortcuts

Let someone know your destination, your route and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route

If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55°F

Maintain ventilation when using kerosene heaters to avoid build-up of toxic fumes

Refuel kerosene heaters outside and keep them at least three feet from flammable objects

Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace, enclosed or partially enclosed area. Locate unit away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors​

If you have any question, please call 585-428-6739

Or Email us at Fireweb@cityofrochester.gov