“Prepare Now: Essential Steps for the Upcoming Ice Storm”

As an ice storm looms over metro Atlanta, residents are urged to take immediate steps to prepare. The National Weather Service has issued an Ice Storm Warning due to expected freezing rain accumulation of up to one inch. This severe weather condition is likely to result in hazardous roads, downed power lines, and prolonged power outages.

Essential Preparations for the Ice Storm

With less than 24 hours until the storm strikes, here are crucial steps you should follow to stay safe.

Water Supply Management

• Fill Bathtubs: Clean a bathtub and fill it with water for flushing toilets, in case of water service failure.
• Prevent Frozen Pipes: Allow faucets to drip slowly to keep water flowing and prevent pipes from freezing. Open cabinet doors under sinks to expose pipes to warm air.

Food Preservation

• Adjust Appliance Settings: Set the refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings to extend food freshness during power outages.
• Freeze Water Containers: Fill containers with water and freeze them. Use these as makeshift ice blocks to keep perishables cold.
• Cook Ahead: Prepare non-perishable meals in advance. Consider hard-boiling eggs and cooking proteins.

Heating Strategies

• Designate a Warm Room: Choose a small, interior space to heat if the power goes out.
• Seal Drafts: Use towels to block cold air from entering the room.

Lighting Arrangements

• Use “Jug Lanterns:” Place a headlamp or flashlight facing inward toward a jug of water to diffuse light throughout the room.
• Leave a Light On: Keep one lamp switched on to easily detect when power returns.

Outdoor Safety Measures

Vehicle and Property Preparedness

• Fuel Up: Ensure your vehicle’s gas tank is full, as pumps may not operate without electricity.
• Park Smart: Store vehicles in garages if possible, or away from trees to prevent damage from falling branches.

Utility Readiness

• Check Water Heaters: Drain tankless water heaters on exterior walls if a power outage occurs.
• Propane Supply: Make sure your gas grill’s propane tank is full for cooking during an outage.

Digital Preparation

• Download Offline Maps: Prepare GPS navigation for potential cell tower outages.
• Communicate Plans: Inform an out-of-state contact of your daily check-in plan to save phone battery.
• Take Screenshots: Save vital information such as insurance policies and medical prescriptions on your device.

Health and Safety Precautions

• Keep Space Heaters Safe: Maintain a three-foot distance from flammable materials.
• Check Batteries: Ensure Carbon Monoxide alarms have fresh batteries to prevent poisoning.

Pet Considerations

• Paw Care: Check and wipe your dog’s paws after outdoor use to prevent chemical burns from de-icers.
• Medications: Refill essential prescriptions before the storm hits.

These preparations are essential to safeguard you and your family during the impending ice storm. For more updates and information, visit Filmogaz.com.