As Winter Storm Fern nears, local officials are encouraging residents to prepare for severe weather conditions. Authorities recommend taking steps now to ensure the safety of families, neighbors, and pets during the storm.
The American Red Cross provides guidance on winter storm safety, including how to prepare homes and emergency kits. More information can be found at https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/winter-storm.html.
For those planning to clear snow, Travelers offers tips on safe shoveling practices to prevent injuries. Details are available at https://www.travelers.com/resources/weather/winter-storms/snow-shoveling-tips.
The International Code Council has assembled winter safety toolkits that cover topics such as supply kits, generator use, and frostbite prevention. Residents can access these resources at https://www.iccsafe.org/advocacy/safety-toolkits/winter-safety-resources/.
Travel advisories from the National Weather Service highlight vehicle preparedness and travel precautions during winter storms. The latest recommendations are posted at https://www.weather.gov/media/arx/winter/winterprepare.pdf.
Guidance is also available for individuals with disabilities through a dedicated resource provided by Lucas County: https://www.co.lucas.oh.us/DocumentCenter/View/11073/WinterPreparedness-PDF?bidId=.
Pet owners are advised by the American Veterinary Medical Association on how to keep animals safe in cold weather conditions. Their recommendations can be found at https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/cold-weather-animal-safety.
FEMA has issued an emergency supply checklist and a comprehensive winter ready toolkit for households preparing for storms. These documents are accessible at https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2021-02/ready_checklist.pdf and https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_r5_winter-ready-toolkit_2024.pdf.
Additionally, the CDC offers advice on preparing homes, vehicles, and families for winter weather events at https://www.cdc.gov/winter-weather/safety/index.html.
Residents are urged to review these resources ahead of Winter Storm Fern’s arrival to stay warm and safe throughout the event.
