The Red Cross Urges Preparedness as Winter Weather Rebounds in Tennessee

NASHVILLE, Tennessee — While most of the snow and ice has melted from last week’s winter storm, a new round of winter weather threatens the area. Weather experts predict that snow could impact a large swath of Tennessee again this week. For that reason, the Red Cross urges everyone to shelter in place and to be extra cautious if caught on icy roads.

Assembling Emergency Preparedness Kits:

• Pack winter-specific supply kits for both home and your vehicle that include a flashlight, first aid supplies, warm coat, hat, mittens or gloves, and water-resistant boots, along with blankets and extra warm clothing.
• Your home kit should have essential medications, canned food and can opener, bottled water, and a battery-powered radio with extra batteries in the event of a power outage.
• Sand or non-clumping kitty litter is good to have on hand in case your car is stuck and to help make walkways or steps less slippery.

Preparing Your Home and Car:

• Keep the gas tank full, which helps prevent the fuel line from freezing.
• Running water, even at a trickle, helps to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Do not use candles for lighting if the power goes out. Use flashlights only.
• Inspect fireplaces and wood stoves. Use a sturdy fire screen with lit fires. Burn only wood - never burn paper or pin boughs.
• If you plan on using an alternative heating source, never use a stove or oven to heat your home.

Winter Weather Operations Are Activated; Motorists asked to stay off roads today. Avoid travel if possible‏

Nashville, Tennessee - Icy and slick road conditions exist throughout the county today with a wintry mix continuing.

Metro Public Works Winter Operations are activated and crews are working in full force to clear the roadways.

As a mix of snow and sleet are continuing to fall, motorists are urged to stay of the roads if possible and to also allow time for crews to clear the roads.

Metro Public Works staff will continue to monitor the latest weather information and will respond in a timely and efficient manner to roadway needs due to inclement weather.

If travel is unavoidable, motorists should check road conditions before getting out on the roads and allow extra space between vehicles so there is adequate distance for braking in wet and icy conditions.

For more information on Metro Public Works’ winter preparedness operations and for winter weather driving tips, visit: http://www.nashville.gov/Public-Works/Getting-Around-Nashville/Snow.aspx

ALL Nashville schools are closed today.