Prepare for Winter Storms, Avoid Travel

Douglas County Urges Residents to Prepare for Winter Storms, Avoid Travel
Posted on 02/23/2023
Douglas County Urges Residents to Prepare for Winter Storms, Avoid Travel

Minden, NV – With a new series of winter weather in the forecast, Douglas County urges residents to prepare in advance. According to the US National Weather Service (NWS) in Reno, there will be a “significant winter storm Friday into Saturday, followed by a brief break before another major winter storm midday Sunday through Tuesday night.”

Douglas County wants to urge all residents to prepare in advance for the upcoming storms. Our community should avoid unnecessary travel and have emergency plans in place in case of power outages and dangerous snow conditions.

BE PREPARED

Purchase in advance all the necessary groceries, supplies, and tools to clear sidewalks and driveways, uncover your car, and keep all passageways clear

Be sure you have a way to clear snow, including a snow shovel, snow blower with gas, and salt or sand to pre-treat the driveway and sidewalks. A push broom can be helpful for removing snow from vehicles and gas meters

HOME

If able, allow indoor sinks to trickle. Running water helps prevent pipes from freezing

Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage

Know where the water shutoff valve is and how to open and close it

If your house is flooding, turn off the water valve and immediately call 911

Clear gas meters of snow

If your power goes out, do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home, Use a generator, but only outdoors and away from windows

ROADS

Check Road Conditions - Stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary

Use snow tires and carry chains

Slow down and leave a safe stopping distance! A collision or spinout takes much longer to reach your destination and puts lives at risk. Slow down and arrive safely

Don't use cruise control on snowy roads

Prepare Snow Essentials - Have a first aid kit, food and water, extra clothes and boots, and proper snow tools like a shovel with you

Don't slam on the brakes; this could cause a slide on snow or ice. Apply controlled, constant pressure when applicable and start braking earlier than you normally would

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