What you should do to be prepared: 

Be aware of the current weather forecast for your area. The National Weather Service provides local winter weather advisories, warnings and safety information at

http://www.weather.gov. http://511Virginia.org. http://211virginia.org. http://www.ReadyVirginia.gov.  

 

Information about open shelters is available at by dialing 2-1-1, or online at 

www.211virginia.org http://februarywinterstorm.tumblr.com/. Local media will also carry information about open shelters.and

www.211virginia.org http://februarywinterstorm.tumblr.com/. Local media will also carry information about open shelters.and

 

Shelters

– Public shelters are a last resort and may or may not provide food and water. You should take the following with you to the shelter:

– A three-day supply of water and non-perishable food items, including any special dietary needs.

– A three-day supply of special items for any elderly, disabled or infant members of your household

– Blankets, pillows, linens and something to sleep on, such as a cot, air mattress or cushion

– Before you leave, bring your pets inside and make sure they have food and water.

– Smoking, alcoholic beverages and weapons are not allowed in shelters.

–Check on your neighbors, especially older Virginians, to make sure they have what they need and that they are safe.

–Real-time road conditions are available by calling 5-1-1 or visiting

–Residents should dial 9-1-1 and #77 only in life-threatening emergencies.

–211 and 211Virginia.org

–Through 211, the Virginia Department of Social Services can help residents seeking shelter locations, assistance for an elderly or disabled person, and those who are concerned about an unsheltered individual or family at risk of hypothermia.

–All referrals are confidential, and you can search for these same services on

–Avoid overexertion during clean up. Shoveling snow or pushing a car can bring on a heart attack or make other medical conditions worse.
Signs of a heart attack include chest discomfort, discomfort in other areas of the upper body–especially in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. Shortness of breath may occur with or without chest discomfort. Other signs include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or light-headedness.

–Be careful using generators and space heaters. Do not operate generators indoors.

–Have food, water, a battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries on hand.