While the danger from winter weather varies across the country, nearly all Americans, regardless of where they live, are likely to face some type of severe winter weather at some point in their lives. That could mean snow or subfreezing temperatures, as well as strong winds or even ice or heavy rain storms. One of the primary concerns is the winter weather's ability to knock out heat, power and communications services to your home or office, sometimes for days at a time. The National Weather Service refers to winter storms as the “Deceptive Killers” because most deaths are indirectly related to the storm. Instead, people die in traffic accidents on icy roads and of hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold. It is important to be prepared for winter weather before it strikes.

Thoroughly check and update your family's Emergency Supply Kit before winter approaches and add the following supplies in preparation for winter weather:

• Rock salt to melt ice on walkways
• Sand to improve traction
• Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment.
• Also include adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.

Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and windowsills to keep the warm air inside.  Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing.  Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).  Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.  Know ahead of time what you should do to help elderly or disabled friends, neighbors or employees.  Hire a contractor to check the structural stability of the roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of snow - or water, if drains on flat roofs do not work.
If you have a car, fill the gas tank in case you have to leave. In addition, check or have a mechanic check the following items on your car: Antifreeze levels - ensure they are sufficient to avoid freezing, Battery and ignition system - should be in top condition and battery terminals should be clean, brakes - check for wear and fluid levels, exhaust system - check for leaks and crimped pipes and repair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning, fuel and air filters - replace and keep water out of the system by using additives and maintaining a full tank of gas, heater and defroster - ensure they work properly.  Lights and flashing hazard lights - check for serviceability. Oil - check for level and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well. Thermostat - ensure it works properly.  Tires - make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs. Windshield wiper equipment - repair any problems and maintain proper washer fluid level.

Warming Centers
 
A warming center is a facility, such as a library, senior center, community center, where people may go to warm-up during a cold emergency.  Warming centers are activated by the Providence Emergency Management Agency, in coordination with the Office of Mayor David Cicilline, Office of Neighborhood Services, the city’s libraries and recreation centers when temperatures reach dangerously cold levels.

When warming centers are needed, a list of locations will be posted on the www.readyprov.com website.