Winter Weather Awareness Week

Governor Andy Beshear, signed a proclamation designating, December 2-9 as winter weather awareness week.

Lexington, Ky (WTVQ): Although the weather may seem mild now, it’s important to stay winter weather aware. Governor Andy Beshear, signed a proclamation designating, December 2-9 as winter weather awareness week.

“Winter weather here can be very unpredictable. We can go from rain, to ice, to snow and back in like 24 hours,” says Tim Brandewie, the Emergency Operations Manager for Lexington. He says it’s important to make sure your house is winterized. “Starting on the outside with your water lines,” he said. “Disconnect your hoses roll them up so you don’t have an issue breaking the pipe where your faucet goes back into the wall. If you have any other exterior water lines or garage lines, if it’s anticipated to get very cold, go ahead and make sure they are exposed to warmth. Open up your cabinets so they stay warm.”

He says to also make sure chimney and fireplace are inspected and clean, and he adds that there’s a surge in electrical safety issues this time of year. “Fifty percent of all house fires nationally happen between December and February,” Brandewie said.
“Usually this is a result of excess electrical load. Improper use of space heaters and things like that.”

He says, along with your home, to make sure you’re prepared when you’re on the road traveling for the holidays. “Make sure that you have a safety kit in your car a little bit of food a little bit of water, blankets,” he said. “So, if you’re stuck out there for a while, you’re able to stay warm.”

Brandewie advises you layer up. If the temperatures drop way down like last year where we saw a historical cold snap. “It’s important not to leave any of your skin exposed, gloves, face scarves,” he said. “If at all possible, avoid being out in it. But be very careful if it does get that cold this year.”