Cobb & Douglas Public Health Urges Residents to Prepare for Winter Storms and Extreme Cold

Cobb & Douglas Public Health (CDPH) urges residents to be prepared for extreme cold and winter storms following the National Weather Service (NWS) Winter Weather Warning in Georgia beginning Friday, January 6 at 4 p.m. to Saturday, January 7 at 1 p.m.

Residents can protect themselves and their family by preparing their homes and cars in the case of winter weather advisories and other cold weather emergencies. It is recommended that families create a “kit” of basic food, water and supplies in both the home and the vehicle and winterize both by following this guide. In addition, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends these items:

At home

• A three-day supply of food and water
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Emergency charger for mobile devices
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio
• First aid kit
• Prescription medicines, infant formula, pet food and other items for family members with specific needs
• Extra blankets, warm winter coats and/or an alternative heating source in case of power outage

In your vehicle

• Food and water
• Blankets
• Portable mobile phone charger
• Ice scraper
• Flashlight and batteries
• First aid kit
• Jumper cables
• Sand or cat litter (for traction)

During emergency situations like Winter Storm Warnings, residents should pay attention to the news and announcements regarding the emergency, and be aware of what certain weather terms mean, and what actions they should take during the advisory. Ready.gov has supplied this guide to help residents understand weather terminology during a winter or cold weather emergency.