A severe winter storm hit Missouri three weeks before the official start of winter. The American Red Cross says we all need to learn a lesson in the storm’s aftermath. Red Cross officials offer safety tips for winter weather, especially urgent after hundreds of thousands of Missourians suffered through power outages. Nicole Holtgrefe with the St. Louis Red Cross chapter says everyone should understand the need to put together an emergency kit, which should be prepared ahead of time, but can be assemble at the time of need. Holtgrefe says nearly everyone has bottled water, some non-perishable food, batteries, flashlights and a battery-powered radio somewhere in the house. She says they can be quickly assembled. The Red Cross suggests an emergency kit should be kept in the house and in the car. Children love the snow, perhaps a bit too much. Holtgrefe says parents need to make sure they’re safe, that they have adequate clothing and take frequent breaks to drink water and keep warm. Auto accidents are the number one killer in the winter. The Red Cross advises you to winterize your car, keep the gas tank full and cell phone charged up. House fires increase during the winter. The Red Cross says smoke alarms should have fresh batteries and be replaced every ten years. Families should frequently go over escape plans. Homeowners need to be careful about alternative heat sources. Gas-powered generators can emit carbon monoxide gas, which has proven deadly in Missouri. They must be well ventilated.
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Red Cross Winter Tips