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Tips for getting through when winter storms hit

Are you ready for a winter weather emergency?

With the meteorological start to winter arriving Thursday, the Florence County Health Department in Florence, Wis., has some advice on being prepared to withstand the worst of what this winter might bring to the northwoods.

“Our region is known for severe weather, including temperatures dropping below zero and large amounts of snow with or without notice, leaving homes without power,” Amber Kolberg of Florence County Health Department stated in a news release.

When winter storms threaten, the department recommends households have —

— Three days’ worth of drinking water and food. This includes one gallon of water per person, per day, and a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

— Flashlights with extra batteries.

— First aid kits.

— Extra blankets and/or pillows.

— A battery-operated radio.

— A battery-operated cellphone charger (a great stocking-stuffer idea for the upcoming holidays).

— Medications for people and pets.

It also helps to put together an emergency go-bag that all family members know how to access before an emergency situation, in case a sudden evacuation is needed. Make an exit strategy and meeting location plan with the family.

As a rural community, Florence County’s resources can be limited, the health department noted. “Before winter strikes, plan ahead for a heating source for your family during a power outage,” the department advised. “Generators can be a great option for outages in the cold winter months.”

For more information on preparing for emergencies, go online to www.florencewipublichealth.com or follow the department on Facebook, @FlorenceCountyHealthDept or Instagram @florencecountyhealthdept.

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