Southwest Michigan got a taste of winter weather on Halloween, and Michigan State Police say it was a good reminder to take precautions ahead of the real deal.
This is Winter Hazards Awareness Week, and MSP spokesperson Lauren Thompson tells us everyone should have their cars inspected and prepare an emergency kit to keep in the car.
“That should be stocked with batteries, it should have either a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio, a flashlight, a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a phone charger,” Thompson said. “You also want to have a shovel, blankets, and non-perishable food.”
Thompson says Michigan residents often think they’re already prepared for winter weather, and then they get surprised with a severe storm. She adds it’s also important to have emergency supplies in the home. That’s not all.
“You want to have carbon monoxide detectors. It seems like every winter, whether here in Michigan or in another state, we hear a sad story of a family who passes away by carbon monoxide poisoning, and that happens mostly in the winter.”
That’s often the result of a generator being used during a power outage. Remember to keep generators outside and away from doors or windows.
Thompson says this is also a good time to weatherize your home by eliminating drafts and having the furnace inspected.
You can get more information at Michigan.gov/MIReady.
