Not again: Preparing now key in battling possible winter storm

  • Published
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  After a few weeks of above average temperatures, North Texas and Sheppard Air Force Base is bracing for another potentially dangerous winter storm system to move through the area beginning Jan. 28. Sheppard leadership is urging everyone to be prepared for this storm.

The National Weather Service in Norman, Okla., has issued a winter storm watch for most of Oklahoma and parts of North Texas. According to the NWS Web site, "the most likely time for hazardous winter weather will be from early Thursday morning through early Friday morning."

According to the Federal Emergency Management Administration, being ready before a winter storm hits is just as important as know what to do during an actual event. Here are some tips from FEMA on what to do before a winter storm:

· Prepare for possible isolation in your home by having sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off. For example, store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.

· Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing.

· Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.

· Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).

· Know ahead of time what you should do to help elderly or disabled friends, neighbors or employees.

· Check your vehicle's fluid levels, brakes, battery, lights, windshield wiper equipment, tread level on tires and thermostat.

· Have an emergency kit in each car that includes a small shovel, flashlight, battery powered radio, water, snack food, matches, blankets, extra coats, emergency flares and booster cables.

Preventing slips and falls is an important aspect of wintry storms. Sheppard's civil engineer contractor, DS2, advises people not to use rock salt, as has been the common practice in the past. According to DS2, products containing sodium chloride can lead to ground water contamination, kill vegetation and is corrosive in nature.

DS2 advises using "green" products to de-ice sidewalks and driveways. Urea Ice Melt is available through the 82nd Logistics Readiness Squadron in 50- and 100-pound bags. Zep De-Icer is available in a 50-pound bag through GSA Advantage.

Call local hardware and supply stores to see if they carry "green" products such as Garon De-icer; Enviro-Melt De-icer; and Peladow Premier Snow & Ice Melter.