I'm sure everyone has heard that there is a major winter storm that's going to be stretching from Texas to Maine. I know our New England Four Freedomers are always capable to handle this weather but I thought I would share some safety tips from that my company sent out to everyone.
Winter Storm Alert

A potentially historic winter storm is expected to impact over 200 million people across the South, Midwest and Northeast Friday through Monday with potentially damaging ice, heavy snow, and cold temperatures.

Winter Storm Hazards

Ice

* Areas could see up to half an inch or more of dangerous ice accretion.
* Thick ice can weigh down trees and power lines, creating extreme hazards.

Cold Temperatures

* Temperatures are forecast to drop below freezing for 48-60 consecutive hours across much of the region.
* Sub-zero wind chills are possible; the coldest wind chills may fall below -50 across some regions.

Widespread Power Outages Expected

* Treacherous travel conditions, prolonged power outages and tree damage are likely.
* Potentially hundreds of thousands of people may go without electricity and heat for days.
* Power restoration efforts will be severely hampered by ongoing freezing conditions.

Before the Storm

Personal

* Charge all electronic devices and portable battery packs.
* Stock up on non-perishable food and water (3-day minimum supply).
* Fill prescriptions and gather necessary medications.
* Prepare warm clothing, blankets, and emergency supplies.
* Fill vehicle gas tanks.
* Know the location of emergency shelters in your area.

Home

* Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms immediately.
* Gather flashlights and extra batteries (avoid reliance on candles).
* Identify one room that can be closed off and heated as a "warm room".
* Protect pipes from freezing internally by allowing faucets to drip and externally by covering hose bibs.

During the Storm

Travel

* AVOID ALL NON-ESSENTIAL TRAVEL during the storm.
I* f you must travel, inform family/friends of your route and expected arrival time
* Keep an emergency kit in vehicle (blankets, water, snacks, phone charger).
* Be aware of possible downed power lines.

If an outage occurs

* Check with your power company for updates. Many have outage maps and information on their websites.
* Use 911 for true emergencies only.
* Use flashlights, instead of candles, as much as possible.
* Dress warmly, in layers.
* If you lose your heat, close the doors of unused rooms and place towels under the doors. * At night, cover windows with shades, extra blankets or sheets.
* Unplug sensitive electronics to protect them from surges when power is restored.
* Know and watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.

If using a generator during an outage:

* Follow the 20-20-20 rule:
- Keep generators 20 feet away from the house, doors, & windows.
- Power off & allow a 20-minute cooldown before refueling.
- Purchase a battery operated $20 alarm to detect carbon monoxide.
* NEVER use a generator indoors as portable generators release exhaust that contains carbon monoxide (CO), an invisible, odorless gas that can be deadly.

Signs of CO poisoning:
Headaches
Dizziness
Weakness
Chest pain
Upset stomach or vomiting
Confusion or disorientation
Flu-like symptoms

Remember to check on your neighbors during this time: Older adults and young children are more at risk in extreme cold.

Snow & Ice Removal

Removal priorities

* Entrances/exits.
* Walkways and stairs.
* Equipment access points.
* Emergency egress routes.

Removal & Surface Preparation

* Remove snow early and often, don’t wait for buildup.
* Push snow instead of lifting it when possible.
* Apply ice melt before and after snowfall when possible.
* Use sand or grit for added traction on slopes and ramps.
* Barricade or flag areas that cannot be immediately treated.
* Inspect walking surfaces throughout the day, conditions can change quickly.

Walking & Working in Snow and Ice

Footwear

* Wear slip-resistant, insulated boots.
* Use traction aids when required.

Walking techniques

* Take short, slow steps.
* Keep hands free for balance.
* Use handrails when available.
* Avoid rushing.

Situational awareness

* Watch for black ice, especially on bridges, metal surfaces, and shaded areas.
* Be cautious stepping out of vehicles and equipment.
* Assume wet surfaces may be frozen.

Stop Work Obligation

* If conditions become unsafe due to snow, ice, wind, or reduced visibility:
- Stop work.
- Notify supervision.
- Reassess conditions before resuming operations.
- No task is so urgent that it cannot be done safely.

Stay safe and keep warm, let this winter storm pass so we can keep fighting the ugliness that's striking our democracy.

Mala