Stay Ready, Stay Safe: NC Winter Weather Preparedness Week

December 7–13, 2025

As temperatures drop and winter approaches, the Statesville Fire Department is joining the National Weather Service in recognizing North Carolina Winter Weather Preparedness Week. This week serves as an important reminder for our community to prepare early, stay informed, and take proactive steps to stay safe throughout the winter season.

While winter storms in our region can be unpredictable, they often bring hazards such as freezing rain, snow, sleet, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures. Taking time now to plan and prepare can make all the difference when severe weather strikes.

Understanding Winter Storm Hazards

Winter weather in North Carolina can vary significantly. Here are the main hazards to be aware of:

• Snow & Sleet: Even light accumulation can create slippery roads and hazardous travel.
• Freezing Rain: Ice can down trees and power lines, leading to widespread outages.
• Extreme Cold: Prolonged exposure can result in frostbite or hypothermia.
• Black Ice: Invisible patches of ice form on roads and sidewalks, posing a major risk for drivers and pedestrians.

Winter storms impact North Carolina every year, and their effects can linger for days or even weeks. While snow and ice are obvious dangers, many winter-related deaths are indirect, stemming from:

• Traffic accidents on icy roads
• Overexertion while shoveling snow
• Improper heating methods that cause fires or carbon monoxide poisoning

The best defense is preparation. Taking steps now - before the first flakes fall - can help you stay safe and minimize disruptions during severe weather.

Preparing Your Home for Winter

A few preventive steps can help avoid damage and keep your home safe:

• Insulate pipes and allow faucets to drip during extreme cold to prevent freezing.
• Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure proper operation.
• Trim tree limbs that could fall during ice events.
• Ensure fireplaces and wood stoves are cleaned and functioning properly.

Being ready at home is critical, especially when storms bring widespread power outages or hazardous roads. Build or update your winter emergency supply kit with:

• A 3–5 day supply of food and water
• Non-perishable foods that don’t require cooking (canned meats, peanut butter, etc.)
• Necessary medications and infant supplies
• Flashlights, batteries, and portable chargers - ensure to charge your phone in advance
• Ensure you have warm clothing and blankets
• Make sure you have an updated first aid kit

Remember: Severe winter storms may isolate your home for multiple days, so ensure your essentials are stocked and accessible.

Driving Safely in Winter Weather

Approximately 75% of winter weather-related deaths occur on the road. If snow or ice is in the forecast, the safest choice is to stay home.

If you must travel:

• Make sure your vehicle is winter-ready. Check your battery, antifreeze, wipers, thermostat, and tire tread.
• Keep your gas tank as full as possible.
• Clear ALL snow and ice from your vehicle - windows, roof, hood, and lights.
• Share your travel plans with someone and carry a charged phone.
• Drive slowly and increase your following distance.

If you begin to skid: steer gently into the skid and never slam on the brakes. Staying calm and traveling at slower speeds can help prevent rollovers and collisions.

Pack a winter car kit with: blankets, jumper cables, scraper/brush, tow rope, sand or salt, flashlight, first-aid kit, and a map.

Staying Warm While Reducing Fire Risks

Cold weather often leads to an increase in home heating fires. The Statesville Fire Department urges residents to heat their homes safely:

• Have chimneys inspected and cleaned - creosote buildup is the leading cause of chimney fires.
• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from space heaters.
• Turn heaters off when leaving a room or going to bed.
• Never use ovens or grills to heat your home.
• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed.

Space heaters are involved in 25% of home heating fires, but account for 74% of related deaths. Stay alert, use them correctly, and always follow manufacturer guidelines.

Build Your Winter Emergency Kit

Whether at home or on the road, having a winter emergency kit ready ensures you’re prepared for unexpected conditions.

Home Kit Essentials:

• Flashlights, extra batteries, and candles
• Non-perishable food and bottled water
• First-aid supplies and essential medications
• Extra blankets, warm clothing, and sleeping bags
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Alternative heat source (used safely and properly ventilated)

Vehicle Kit Essentials:

• Ice scraper and small shovel
• Sand or kitty litter for traction
• Jumper cables
• Blankets, gloves, and extra warm clothing
• Cell phone charger
• Emergency flares or reflectors

Understanding the Dangers of Freezing Rain and Sleet

Freezing rain is one of winter’s most dangerous weather types. Even ¼ inch of ice can trigger widespread power outages and extremely hazardous travel. Ice is often difficult to detect - roads may look simply wet when a thin, invisible layer of ice (black ice) is present. This is especially true on bridges and overpasses. If you encounter icy conditions: Slow down gradually - avoid sudden braking or turning. Keep a significant distance from other vehicles. If you lose traction, stay calm and gently steer in the direction of the skid.

Together, We Can Weather the Winter Safely

Winter weather can be challenging, but preparation is key. The Statesville Fire Department is committed to helping our community stay safe, informed, and ready for whatever the season brings.

For more information on winter weather preparedness, visit the National Weather Service at weather.gov/gsp/winter_preparedness.

Stay warm, stay prepared, and stay safe this winter!

www.statesvillenc.net/fire-department