Winter Weather Preparedness


Winter storms in Calaveras County can create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion. Winter storms including blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high winds. So it's important for residents to be careful and take precautions during these conditions. Below are some tips and resources to help keep you and your family safe during winter conditions.
 


 

Prepare Your Home

Residents in flood-prone areas should remember to clean their storm drains, clean leaves as they fall, and have items like shovels, boots, raincoats, and sandbags on hand. In the event of projected flooding sandbags are available to Calaveras County residents and businesses at various locations. Some assistance may be available, but residents should bring shovels and plan to fill and load the bags themselves.

Click image for for a printable flyer

 

Staying Safe During Winter Weather

  • Stay off roads if at all possible. If trapped in your car, then stay inside.
  • Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, then wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
  • Take it easy when shoveling snow or walking in the cold to reduce the risk of a heart attack.
  • Stay updated on the weather conditions and any emergency operations in your area.

Be in the Know

Register for Emergency Alerts 15 January 2020

Register for Emergency Alerts

Know Your Zone! 7 July 2022

Know Your Zone!

OES Twitter 17 November 2023

OES Twitter

OES Instagram 17 November 2023

OES Instagram

OES Facebook 17 November 2023

OES Facebook

Road Closures 17 November 2023

Road Closures

Additional Resources

Build a Go Bag

To assemble your kit store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.
A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

  • Blankets or sleeping bags.
  • Flashlights with extra batteries
  • First Aid Kit
  • Non-Perishable Food
  • Water
  • Local Maps

For a full list of supplies visit: www.ready.gov/kit

 

 

Make a Plan

Plan for how you will prepare for upcoming winter storms and potential flooding, landslides, and power outages.

Here are some tips: 

  • Prepare an emergency kit with essentials
  • Identify a safe meeting place for family members in case you need to evacuate.
  • Keep important documents, medications, and emergency contacts in an accessible place.
  • Know the emergency shelters in your area.
  • Ensure your home is winter-ready by insulating pipes and checking heating systems.

 

 

Generator Safety

  • Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages.
  • Install working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. 
  • Keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding. Touching a wet generator or devices connected to one can cause electrical shock.
  • Always connect the generator to appliances with heavy-duty extension cords.
  • Let the generator cool before refueling. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
  • Visit the County Generator website for more information

Calaveras County Community Info Center