BARRON, Wis. (WJMC) — Be prepared for dangerously cold temperatures in the forecast tonight, tomorrow and this weekend.
Barron County Emergency Management director Mike Judy says being prepared now can avert disaster later.
He says, use safe, reliable heating sources. Never use propane heaters or grills indoors for heat and make sure your furnace exhaust is clear and you have working carbon monoxide detectors.
Don’t travel unless you have to and keep your gas tank more than half full and carry a winter vehicle kit of supplies in case you get stranded.
Also, be prepared for utility outages, such as having food, water, medications, fully charged devices and other supplies to last at least 72 hours. Do not call 911 to report utility outages, unless there is danger to safety.
And know where the main shut off switch or valve is for your gas, water and electric utility services. Run a small stream of water on faucets along exterior walls to avoid frozen pipes.
Also, check on your neighbors and at-risk populations.
Judy said, if people have no heat, Barron County has emergency warming shelters on standby. Contact the sheriff’s department non-emergency line, 715-537-3106.
More preparedness and natural disaster safety tips can be found at Ready.gov.