Governor Laura Kelly issued a verbal State of Disaster Emergency Proclamation due to winter weather that is currently moving across Kansas. This declaration allows resources to be prepositioned to provide state assistance. She encourages all Kansans to be extra cautious if they have to be out today, January 6th.
Avoid travel if you can, but if you must travel, be sure your car’s gas tank is full and you have an emergency kit in your vehicle. Vehicle emergency kits should include blankets, flashlights, batteries, a cell phone charger, hand-warmers, high-energy food snacks, bottled water, necessary medications, a snow shovel, flares and other emergency supplies. Make sure your cell phone is charged and someone is aware of your itinerary, including expected time of arrival.
If your car loses traction and begins to slide, steer into the swerve, or in the direction you want to go. Anticipate a second skid in the opposite direction as the car straightens out.
If you are stranded in a winter storm, do not panic. Stay in the vehicle, keep fresh air circulating through a downwind window, run the motor sparingly, turn on the dome light, and make sure the vehicle’s tailpipe is clear of snow. Stimulate circulation and stay awake by moving arms and legs. And whether at home or on the road, tune in to KOFO, and television stations for the latest weather information.
