This week is Winter Hazards Awareness Week in Michigan.
The Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division, is urging residents to take steps to stay safe amid winter risks, including extreme cold, ice, and snow.
Captain Kevin Sweeney is the Deputy State Director of Emergency Management. He said, “Preparing your home and vehicle now gives you the best chance to stay safe when severe weather hits.”
Sweeney said, “It’s not a matter of if, but when.”
Officials offer some tips for preparing for winter.
For the home, they suggest: weatherproofing with weatherstripping and insulation; insulating water lines; inspecting your furnace; and having a backup heating plan.
Properly installed carbon monoxide detectors are a must.
For your vehicle, make sure your routine maintenance and service are up to date.
Keep an emergency kit with jumper cables, blankets, and non-perishable food in your vehicle at all times.
For more tips on winter preparedness, visit http://www.michigan.gov/miready or follow Michigan State Police on Facebook and X.