While Southern California winters are generally mild, everyone should be prepared for the possibility of severe winter weather. Across the country, winter storms can bring snow, ice, freezing rain, and dangerously low temperatures. These conditions can create travel hazards, power outages, and health risks.
Before a Winter Storm
Minimize travel if winter weather is expected, and keep an emergency supply kit in your vehicle. Bring pets indoors, and ensure livestock or outdoor animals have shelter and access to non-frozen water.
Vehicle Preparation
Make sure your car is winter-ready. Check antifreeze, battery, brakes, exhaust, fuel filters, heaters, lights, oil, and windshield wipers. Keep your gas tank full to prevent fuel line freezing.
Stock your vehicle with essential emergency items like a flashlight, batteries, water, snacks, warm clothing, jumper cables, flares, first aid kit, radio, and a scraper.
Home Preparation
Insulate walls and attics, weather-strip doors and windows, and clear gutters. Repair roof leaks and trim trees to avoid storm damage. Maintain and inspect chimneys and heating systems annually. Only use heating equipment approved for indoor use and keep fire extinguishers handy.
Know These Winter Weather Terms
Freezing Rain: Rain that freezes on contact, creating dangerous ice.
Sleet: Ice pellets that can make roads and walkways slippery.
Winter Weather Advisory: Conditions may be hazardous; use caution.
Winter Storm Watch: A storm may be approaching—stay alert.
Winter Storm Warning: A storm is happening or imminent.
Blizzard Warning: Strong winds and blowing snow are expected for 3+ hours.
Frost/Freeze Warning: Temperatures are expected to drop below freezing.
Carbon Monoxide Safety
Never use fuel-burning devices indoors or in enclosed spaces. Keep generators and similar items far from windows and doors. Install carbon monoxide detectors on each level of your home and near sleeping areas. If your alarm sounds, go outside immediately and call for help.
During a Winter Storm
Stay indoors. Walk carefully on icy surfaces and stay dry – wet clothing causes body heat loss. Watch for signs of frostbite (numbness, pale skin) and hypothermia (shivering, confusion, slurred speech). Seek medical help immediately if symptoms occur.
Only drive if necessary. If you must go outside, dress in layers of warm, loose-fitting clothes. Wear a water-repellent outer layer, gloves or mittens, a hat, and cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
Winter weather can be serious. A little preparation now can keep you and your family safe when the temperature drops.
