PRINCETON, NJ, January 3, 2018 — The American Red Cross is keeping a close eye on the winter storm expected to impact New Jersey, bringing with it the potential for snowfall and icy conditions affecting various parts of the state. The Red Cross has steps people can take to prepare for and stay safe during severe winter weather.

“The most important thing people can do right now is to get prepared for winter storm conditions and potential power outages,” said Ana Montero, CEO, American Red Cross New Jersey Region. “As the storm approaches, we encourage everyone to stay alert to changing weather conditions and listen to the advice of local officials.” 

WINTER STORM SAFETY TIPS  

Here are ten ways to prepare for and stay safe during a winter storm:

1. Have at least a three-day supply of water and non-perishable, easy to prepare food as well as a seven-day supply of medications. 
2. If you need to go outside, dress in layers of lightweight clothing to stay warm. Gloves and a hat will help prevent losing body heat.
3. Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will help keep the fuel line from freezing.
4. Bring the pets indoors. If that’s not possible, make sure they have enough shelter to keep them warm and that they can get to unfrozen water.
5. Avoid frozen pipes - run water, even at a trickle, to help prevent them from freezing. Keep the thermostat at the same temperature day and night to help avoid freezing pipes.
6. Do not use a stove or oven to heat the home.
7. Space heaters should sit on a level, hard surface and anything flammable should be kept at least three feet away.
8. If using a fireplace, use a glass or metal fire screen large enough to catch sparks and rolling logs.
9. Turn off space heaters and make sure fireplace embers are out before leaving the room or going to bed.
10. Have a plan in place for potential power outages. Keep cell phones charged and have flashlights handy.

WEATHER ALERTS AND FIRST AID TIPS 

People can download the free Red Cross Emergency App for instant access to winter storm tips and weather alerts for their area and where loved-ones live. Medical guidance and a hospital locator are included in the free First Aid App in case travelers encounter any mishaps. The apps are bilingual and are available to download in app stores or at redcross.org/apps. 

Additional winter storm safety information and checklists are available at redcross.org/WinterSafety.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross. 

About the American Red Cross in New Jersey 

The American Red Cross provides programs and services to a population of 8.8 million in New Jersey. The Red Cross trains and mobilizes more than 5,000 volunteers who support the delivery of services throughout the state. In New Jersey last year, the Red Cross responded to more than 820 local disasters, mostly home fires, helping nearly 1,900 displaced families; collected more than 90,500 units of blood through blood drives and Red Cross Blood Donation Centers; provided more than 4,180 military family case services with emergency messages, helping families find assistance and/or get counseling and referrals; and trained more than 113,200 individuals with life-saving skills in preparedness, CPR, AED use, first aid and aquatics. For more information, please visit redcross.orgJ and follow us on Twitter @NJRedCross.org.

# # #