Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.

Smoke alarms save lives. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed.
Weather Safety Although winter hasn’t officially begun, snow has already fallen on many parts of the country. But it’s not too late to prepare for whatever Mother Nature may send your way. First, make sure you have an emergency preparedness kit. This should include, at a minimum:

• Water — one gallon per person, per day for drinking and hygiene purposes
• Food that is non-perishable and easy-to-prepare
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio)
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit, medications and medical items
• Manual can opener
• Extra blankets and warm clothing, including boots, mittens and a hat for all household members
• Non-clumping kitty litter to make walkways and steps less slippery

If a winter storm WATCH is issued in your area, it means a winter storm is possible. Pay attention to updates from local radio and TV stations, and avoid any unnecessary travel. If a winter storm WARNING is issued, it means a winter storm is headed for your area. Stay indoors during the storm if possible. If you must go outside, several layers of lightweight clothing will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Gloves (or mittens) and a hat will prevent loss of body heat. A blizzard WARNING means strong winds, blinding wind-driven snow and dangerous wind chill are expected. Seek shelter immediately! Driving Safety Avoid traveling by car in a storm, but if you must, make sure you have a winter storm survival kit in the trunk. Keep your car’s gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing. Let someone know your destination, your route and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route. If you do get stuck . . .

• Stay with your car. Do not try to walk to safety.
• Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.
• Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won’t back up in the car.
• Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running so that you can be seen.
• As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to keep blood circulating and to stay warm.
• Keep one window away from the blowing wind slightly open to let in air.