Page 15 - Jan Sun Rays

Prepare for severe winter weather CA NEWS

Submitted by Hal Miles, JANUARY 2016 SUNRAYS | 13
Emergency Management Committee

El Niño is a naturally occurring event in which
temperatures in the Pacific Ocean are tem-
porarily elevated, impacting weather across
the globe. In Central Texas, this condition
produces wetter, colder winters, resulting in a
higher than normal chance for snow and freezing rain. While
snow can be a nuisance, it typically does not last very long.
Freezing rain and ice, however, can cause serious risks such
as slippery roads, broken tree limbs and power outages. But
with a little planning, you can be ready to deal with a severe
icing condition.
Freezing rain and ice may impair access to your driveway, block
access to your home and make it difficult for you to leave. Basic
preparation is very important. Please consider the following:
1. Medication: Always fill your prescriptions at least five days
ahead of expiration. Ensure you have non-prescription
medicines and supplies to last at least three days.
2. Food and water: Stock your pantry with at least three
days’ worth of non-perishable food items and fresh water.
Each person should have a minimum of one gallon per day.
3. In the event of a power outage, gas heating and most gas
fireplaces will not work. Blankets and warm clothing will
prevent loss of body heat, while closing doors to rooms
not in use will help retain your home’s remaining heat.
4. Flashlight: Have more than one flashlight and have spare
batteries.
5. Radio: Have a battery operated radio.
6. Matches: Did you know that your gas cook top will not
light without electricity? You can, however, use matches
or a lighter to manually light the burner.
7. Home phone: While a home line with a simple wired tele-
phone is most reliable, it may fail due to downed lines
outside of Sun City. Some, but not all, cordless phones
have battery backup. If you have phone service with Sud-
denlink, have a UPS (uninterruptable power supply) at-
tached to the modem.
8. Cell phone: Turn your cell phone off when not placing a
call to extend battery life.
9. Water pipes: Protect your home’s water pipes by allowing
water to drip from the tap, ensuring continued movement
of water. If a pipe bursts, know how to shut off your water.
10. Neighbors: Contact your neighbors if you need assistance.
Look out for your neighbors by checking on those that are
disabled or may need assistance.
The SC Ballroom may open for limited resident evacuation,
as that facility has emergency power and heat.

ONLINE: SCTEXAS.ORG