Winter Awareness Week

November 5th – 9th, 2018 is Winter Awareness Week in Wisconsin.

While it may seem like a long time before we have to worry about winter, it is coming.  Winter weather can prove to be troublesome and even deadly, especially when not prepared for it.  To encourage people to plan ahead for the snow and cold, Governor Scott Walker has declared November 5th -9th, 2018 as Winter Awareness Week in Wisconsin. In partnership with the State, Fond du Lac County Emergency Management and Public Health Department would like to encourage Fond du Lac County residents to take time to prepare for the winter season.

Fond du Lac County has a history of having winter storms, ice storms and extreme cold events which impact our residents, schools, businesses and travelers.  According to statistics from the National Weather Service, Fond du Lac County averages 2.5 winter storm events per year as well as the potential for ice storms and extreme cold events.

“Having an emergency plan and a supply kit in your home and vehicle could save your life during a winter storm,” says Bobbi Hicken, Director of Communications and Emergency Management for Fond du Lac County.  “Being prepared for all types of hazardous weather is important.”

A preparedness winter supply kit should include items such as, food, water, flashlight, blanket, and non-perishable food.  A vehicle kit could include a snow shovel, extra hats and gloves, as well as sand or kitty litter to help with traction in the event you get stuck.

Know before you go and check with 511 on their mobile-friendly website, www.511.wi.gov, for the latest traffic and road conditions.  Stay informed of changing weather conditions through a weather-friendly downloadable app for your phone and by listening to local media. Stay home if at all possible when severe winter weather is in your area of travel.

Additional information can be found at ReadyWisconsin.wi.gov, National Weather Service at https://www.weather.gov/mkx/, and  follow us on  Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/pg/FDLCountyEM/about/ for local information.

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