With indications that this will be a severe winter Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) staffers across the region are carefully monitoring weather effects.

"Our state and local governments have done solid work preparing for this year's winter storms, updating their websites and working closely with radio, television, and print media to inform and advise the public," said FEMA Regional Administrator Ken Murphy. "I urge our citizenry to heed winter warnings from local emergency managers, and to exercise extreme caution when utilizing alternative sources of heat, power and transportation."

In commending residents to review and update emergency plans and inventory and replenish disaster kits, Murphy stressed that emergency power needs can rank right up there with food, water, first aid kits and shelter.

If the power goes out:

• Don't call 9-1-1 for information--use your battery-powered radio for emergency bulletins.
• Plan on cell phones or corded phones for emergency calls. Cordless phones require electricity.
• Turn off major appliances to protect against surges when the power resumes.
• Turn off all lights but one (to alert you when the power comes back on).
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to prevent food spoilage.
• Be particularly careful with generators, and never operate them indoors.
• Flashlights and electric lanterns are safer than candles.

"We're all vulnerable if disaster strikes while we are driving, and emergency kits in every car and truck can be real life savers," continued Murphy. "Disaster driving is one part preparedness, one part common sense, and one-part learning from experience. Avoid driving in severe winter storms or heavy rains, and keep vehicle fuel tanks full, just in case."

When driving in dangerous weather is unavoidable, Murphy offers the following safety tips:

If caught in a storm or blizzard, and your car is immobilized, stay in the vehicle and await rescue. Turn on the auto engine for brief periods to provide heat, but always leave a down-wind window open slightly to avoid deadly carbon monoxide poisoning (make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow). Leave the dome light on at night to signal rescuers, and exercise occasionally by clapping hands or moving around.

For information on FEMA's Resolve to be Ready in 2011 initiative, Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps, visit Ready.gov and CitizenCorps.gov.