INDIANA — This has been Winter Weather Preparedness Week in Indiana. The National Weather Service, with its partners in state and local government and the Red Cross, urge residents to be prepared for winter.

It is each person’s responsibility to ensure to have plans and act safely when hazardous weather occurs. The NWS encourages all Hoosiers to be prepared and do his part for a weather-ready nation.

Though it is not known how bad this winter will be, it is known cold and some snow or freezing rain events will cause problems. Being prepared and having a plan and reacting properly will help minimize the impact of weather.

Remember NWS outlooks and watches give people a heads up on storm potential days in advance. Weather warnings and advisories mean weather is likely to cause problems and it should be considered if this may required a change of plans.

Some winter weather related deaths result from exposure to cold, so dress appropriately. Most winter weather related deaths are from auto accidents on slippery roads, so drive with more caution when roads are bad. other deaths result from fires due to overloaded electrical circuits, so do not plug too many items into an outlet.

Poorly maintained heating systems also lead to deaths by fire or by carbon monoxide poisoning. Have the furnace and chimney checked by professionals for proper operation and venting.

Have adequate supplies available at home, at work, on the farm, or in the vehicle to last at least three days. have alternate sources of heat and power available. Have multiple sources of weather information available. Always consider changing plans when the weather is expected to turn bad.

The best way to stay safe during winter is to be prepared, use common sense and caution. Listen to NOAA weather radio, commercial radio or television for the latest information. Take action when the NWS issues a watch, a warning or advisory.

Learn more by viewing the NWS Winter Weather newsletter.

Visit getprepared.in.gov for more information about winter safety.