Confidence is growing that a winter storm will impact parts of Georgia over the weekend. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch Friday through early Saturday, warning of possible widespread power outages and road closings due to expected heavy snowfall and sleet.
The Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) encourages Georgians to prepare. Residents should check with local officials and news outlets for information about warming centers and shelter locations. GEMA also offers these tips on how to prepare and stay safe in wintry weather:
- Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches.
- Keep heat sources at least three feet away from furniture and drapes.
- Insulate your home and ensure doors and windows are sealed.
- Check and install a working carbon monoxide detector.
- Have backup heat sources like extra blankets, sleeping bags, or a wood-burning fireplace.
- Check your antifreeze, brakes, heater, tires, and wipers.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full.
- Carry an emergency Ready kit with items like a portable phone charger, ice scraper, extra blanket, sand for traction, and jumper cables.
- Use generators outdoors and at least 20 feet from doors, windows, or vents to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Allow pipes to drip or insulate them to prevent freezing.
- Keep pets indoors and check on elderly or disabled relatives and neighbors.
For more winter weather preparedness tips, visit gema.georgia.gov/winter.
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