Ice storms, power outages, high winds and sub-zero temperatures can all make winter months miserable and dangerous. To reduce the impacts of winter dangers each year, emergency managers partner with the National Weather Service to bring people important information during Winter Hazard Awareness Week. In 2024, that week is November 18-22.
“People who are prepared will be much less stressed during a winter storm or emergency and more comfortable while they wait for assistance or repairs to be made,” said Douglas County Emergency Management Director Julie Anderson. “Knowing how to get accurate information and then taking action when needed, is the best way to keep yourself and your family safer.”
Each day of Winter Hazard Awareness Week, Douglas County, the National Weather Service, members of the media and other partners will share information on a particular subject.
- Monday, November 18 Winter Storms
- Tuesday, November 19 Outdoor Winter Safety
- Wednesday, November 20 Winter Fire Safety
- Thursday, November 21 Indoor Winter Safety
- Friday, November 22 Winter Driving
A big change in 2024, is the terminology the National Weather Service will use to alert the public to extreme cold. Wind chill will be replaced with extreme cold. An Extreme Cold Watch will be issued when dangerously cold air, with or without wind, is possible. An Extreme Cold Warning is issued when dangerously cold air, with or without wind, is expected. People should take action when a warning is issued and get prepared when they learn the National Weather Service has issued a watch. The National Weather Service said the reason for change is cold is dangerous with or without wind.
To ensure accurate information, Douglas County residents and visitors are encouraged to receive their warnings on all hazards issued through the Code RED system. To enroll, go to the county website at www.douglasmn.gov and click on Government, Departments, Emergency Management or use this link https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/en-US/D8F8DFD366A4 People can also text DOUGLASMN to 99411.
Douglas County utilities, cities, nonprofits, and other partners will add additional information during and following emergency situations. People are encouraged to learn how to report a power outage to their provider and how to access the outage maps.
Each day of Winter Hazard Awareness Week, Douglas County Emergency Management will use the county Facebook page to share ways to prepare for and respond to winter hazards. The page name is douglascountymn.
“A big thanks to all our partners who will use this week to share life-safety information for both indoor and outdoor winter hazards,” Anderson said. “The essence of emergency management is everyone coming together before, during, and after impactful events.”