We speak with Vanessa Corson, Public Information Officer from Maine Emergency Management Agency.

Preparing Before The Storm:

• Have emergency supplies ready at home that include a 3-day supply of food and water for each person, medications, and anything used daily. You also need an emergency kit in your vehicle.
• Stay off the road during and right after a winter storm, if possible.
• Have a carbon monoxide alarm in place, especially if using alternative heating devices.
• Use safe heating devices and keep them 3 feet or more away from anything flammable.
• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature during day and night. A snowstorm is not the time to set back the thermostat at night to save a few bucks on your heating bill.
• For long term solutions add insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces to maintain higher temperatures in those areas. To prevent drafts, seal cracks and openings around windows, doors, and at sill plates 

Taking Care During The Storm:

• Stay off roads, if possible. If you travel and become stranded in your car, stay put and call for help. Run the engine just long enough to warm up but be careful not to run out of gas.
• Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
• Reduce the risk of a heart attack by avoiding overexertion when shoveling or walking in the snow.

Cleaning Up After The Storm:

• Shovel out two exits from your dwelling. Clear snow from furnace vent.
• Wait until the storm has ended before climbing on your roof to remove snow.
• Have a spotter! Do not climb on to or clear your roof alone in case something goes wrong.
• Look for signs of collapse; sagging roof, severe leaks, cracks or splits, bends or ripples in supports, cracks in the masonry, doors that pop open, and creaking, cracking, or popping sounds.
• Use a snow rake or a broom for pitched roofs. Avoid metal tools that can conduct electricity from power lines and might damage your roof.
• Try to remove 2-3 inches of snow at a time to prevent damage to your roof or shingles.
• Wear protective headgear or goggles when removing snow and be careful removing icicles.
• Make sure gutters, drains, and downspouts are free of ice and snow.
• Don’t use open flame or electric heating devices to remove snow or ice.
• Remember that ladders can be slippery. Ice can build up on the rungs and on your boots.
• Dress appropriately, take your time, stay warm, and stay safe.

• Consider hiring a professional since snow removal can be dangerous where the house rests on its foundation

For additional preparedness and safety information please log on to www.MainePrepares.com or visit MEMA on Facebook or Twitter.