Emergency home kit
Emergency home kit

Erie County Travel Ban Update: Staying Safe During Winter Storms

Winter storms pose significant risks, from car accidents and hypothermia to carbon monoxide poisoning and heart attacks. Erie County, like many regions prone to severe winter weather, can experience travel bans to ensure public safety during these hazardous conditions. Understanding and preparing for these situations is crucial for all residents. This guide provides essential information on how to stay safe during winter storms and what to do if an Erie County travel ban is issued.

Understanding Winter Storm Risks in Erie County

Erie County’s location makes it susceptible to heavy snowfall, blizzards, and icy conditions. These conditions dramatically increase the risk of various dangers:

  • Transportation Accidents: Icy roads and reduced visibility are major factors in car accidents during winter storms. Staying off the roads, especially during a travel ban, is the safest course of action.
  • Hypothermia and Frostbite: Exposure to extreme cold can quickly lead to hypothermia (dangerously low body temperature) and frostbite (tissue damage from freezing).
  • Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Using heating sources improperly during power outages, such as generators indoors or charcoal grills inside, can cause deadly carbon monoxide buildup.
  • Overexertion and Heart Attacks: Shoveling heavy snow or performing other strenuous activities in cold weather can put excessive strain on the heart, increasing the risk of heart attacks, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions.

What to Do If an Erie County Travel Ban is Issued

An Erie County travel ban is implemented to restrict non-essential travel during severe weather events, allowing emergency services to operate effectively and minimize the risk of accidents. If a travel ban is in effect:

  • Seek Shelter Immediately: If you are not already home, find the nearest safe shelter. If you need assistance locating a warming center, call 2-1-1.
  • Stay Off the Roads: Adhere strictly to the travel ban. Only essential travel is permitted, typically for emergency personnel and critical services.
  • Clear Exhaust Vents: Ensure exterior exhaust vents for furnaces and other heating appliances are clear of snow and ice to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
  • Stay Indoors and Warm: Remain inside your home and wear layers of warm clothing.
  • Bring Pets Indoors: Protect your pets from the cold by bringing them indoors.
  • Monitor Emergency Alerts: Stay informed by listening to local news, radio, or using weather apps for updates and emergency information.
  • Locate Utilities: Know the location of electrical boxes and water shut-off valves in your home in case of emergencies.
  • Prepare for Power Outages: Winter storms can cause power outages. Have flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food and water readily available.
  • Use Generators Safely: If using a generator for backup power, operate it outdoors only and away from windows and doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Watch for Hypothermia and Frostbite: Be vigilant for signs of hypothermia and frostbite in yourself and others. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms appear.
  • Check on Neighbors: If it is safe to do so, check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors to ensure they are safe and warm.

Staying Informed During Erie County Winter Storms

Access to timely information is vital during winter storms and travel bans. Utilize these resources to stay updated:

  • Ready Erie App: Download the free Ready Erie App for real-time notifications, emergency shelter locations, evacuation maps, and emergency preparedness planning tools.
  • BUFFALERT System (City of Buffalo): If you are in the City of Buffalo, sign up for the BUFFALERT System to receive specific emergency alerts and severe weather warnings.
  • Local Media: Monitor commercial radio and television stations for the latest weather conditions and emergency announcements.

Emergency home kitEmergency home kit

Winter Storm Preparedness: Make a Plan and Build Kits

Proactive preparation is key to staying safe and comfortable during winter storms, especially when travel is restricted.

Make an Emergency Plan

Develop and practice a comprehensive emergency plan with your family. This plan should include:

  • Emergency Alerts and Warnings: How you will receive official alerts and warnings about winter storms and travel bans.
  • Evacuation Plan: If evacuation becomes necessary, know your routes and destinations.
  • Communication Plan: Establish how you will communicate with family and friends if separated.
  • Emergency Kit Updates: Regularly check and update your emergency kits for home and car.

Build Emergency Kits

Prepare emergency kits for your home and car to sustain you and your family during a winter storm and potential travel ban.

Home Emergency Kit Essentials:

  • Non-perishable food and water
  • Medications and first-aid supplies
  • Warm clothing and blankets
  • Portable radio, flashlights, and extra batteries
  • Emergency Eats Cookbook (for meal ideas during power outages)
  • Contact information for neighbors and loved ones

Car Emergency Kit Essentials:

  • Emergency kit specifically for your car (jumper cables, blankets, flashlight, first-aid kit, snacks)
  • Full gas tank
  • Tires with good tread for winter conditions
  • Knowledge of how to use jumper cables

Emergency car kitEmergency car kit

Health Effects of Winter Storms and Extreme Cold

Extreme cold and winter storms can pose serious health risks. Be aware of these potential health effects and seek immediate medical help if needed:

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning

Carbon monoxide is a silent killer. It’s crucial to understand the risks and symptoms of CO poisoning:

  • Source of CO: Burning fuel in cars, generators, stoves, and other appliances produces carbon monoxide.
  • Danger Indoors: CO can build up to dangerous levels indoors if ventilation is poor or appliances are misused.
  • Symptoms: CO poisoning symptoms are often flu-like: headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. Severe poisoning can lead to unconsciousness and death.

Resources for Specific Groups

Different populations may have unique needs during winter storms. Erie County provides resources for:

  • Seniors: Specific programs and assistance for elderly residents.
  • Pets: Information on pet safety during winter, including keeping pets indoors and contacting veterinarians for advice.
  • Homeless Individuals: Shelters and warming centers are available. Call 2-1-1 for assistance.
  • People With Disabilities: Resources and support for individuals with disabilities and special needs.
  • Individuals with Chronic Diseases: Guidance for managing conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart conditions, kidney disease, and multiple sclerosis during winter weather.
  • Restaurant Owners: Information relevant to food safety and operations during winter storms.

Stay Safe and Informed This Winter

Winter storms and travel bans in Erie County require careful preparation and awareness. By staying informed, creating emergency plans, building essential kits, and understanding the health risks, you can protect yourself and your loved ones during severe winter weather. Always prioritize safety and heed official warnings and travel advisories. For more detailed information and resources, refer to the links provided by Erie County Emergency Services and Ready.gov.

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