Posted on January 20, 2016.
Winter Weather Advisory
The National Weather Service issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Shelby County last night. Forecasters called for the possibility of freezing rain overnight and early in the morning creating hazardous driving conditions.
“We’ll be staying in close contact with the National Weather Service and the Memphis Office of Emergency Management. Public works crews will put brine down tonight. Salt and sand trucks are also ready,” said Dale Lane, Director of the Shelby County Office of Preparedness.
“Motorists should leave early for their destinations and use extreme caution on bridges and overpasses,” said Shelby County Mayor Mark H. Luttrell, Jr. “
We want to ensure citizens stay as safe as possible,” added City of Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland.
Despite some drivers taking caution and schools moving the start time back two hours, there were several accidents and wrecks during the morning drive. Raleigh-Millington had a number of damaged vehicles.
Here are some winter weather tips from the Shelby County Office of Preparedness:
Check emergency kits. Ensure emergency kits for the home, work, and vehicle are stocked with adequate supplies.
Winterize your vehicle. Have an ice scraper handy and check the battery, heater, defroster, lights, tires, brakes, antifreeze levels and wiper blades.
Minimize travel. Use roads most traveled. Let others know your intended route and estimated time of arrival.
Dress for winter. Keep dry. Wear light layers under a heavy coat. Also wear socks, boots, a hat, scarf and gloves.
Winterize your home. Wrap exposed pipes, open cabinet doors and allow faucets to drip. Do not operate space heaters unless you are in the room with them. Keep heaters at least three (3) feet from flammable objects. Have alternative heating sources (fireplace or propane heater). Should the power go out, don’t use a generator indoors. Have an ABC fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and carbon monoxide detector in your home.
Look After Others and Pets. Check on neighbors, seniors and those who live alone. Also bring pets inside.
For more information about winter preparedness, please visit the Shelby County Office of Preparedness website www.staysafeshelby.us or call (901) 222-6700.
