Winter Wonders, Winter Worries

    It's the winter season, and imperative that one prepares for the possibility of inclement weather. Over the next few days, winter storm named "Nemo" will be threatening the well being of over 1 million people. Reports of high levels of snow in the northeastern region of the United States have forced residents to take precautions. Meteorologists fear this storm may have a substantial impact as deep as the winter storm of 1978, also during the month of February. Travel in the potentially affected areas is ill-advised and it is strongly recommended that citizens remain indoors. If travel is a must, it is suggested to utilize public transportation, but this may not be a safe alternative if the use of this type of transportation is interrupted or even delayed. You can watch the local news, The Weather Channel, or you can visit the website www.weather.com and type your location in the search panel for updates on the winter storm "Nemo".

    With the storm in progress, a blizzard warning is in effect for certain areas. There are ways to prepare for the coming storm. Certain supplies can provide comfort and assistance to braving the cold weather:

• Snow shovels
• Sufficient clothing and blankets
• Ice melting products, and sand
• Emergency kit stocked with supplies
• Canned food and water

    During the storm, there are certain measures to be taken to maintain a safe environment as well:

• Stay inside
• Stay as dry as possible
• Minimize travelling and, if absolutely necessary, travel by day
• If you have to shovel snow, stretch beforehand to avoid harming yourself and try to work within your limits, so don't over do it

    For more tips on how to prepare for the winter storm, visit http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather.