The following message is brought to you by Georgia Gwinnett College’s (GGC) Environmental Health and Safety team.
Winter hazards can escalate quickly. Power outages may last longer than expected, roads can become impassable and emergency services may be delayed due to severe conditions. These challenges significantly increase risk for anyone who has not prepared in advance.
Taking action now — assembling emergency kits, planning safe travel habits, checking heating systems and carbon monoxide detectors and preparing for pets and vulnerable individuals — can make the difference between staying safe and facing unnecessary danger. Prepare while conditions are safe and supplies are readily available.
Winter storms and extreme cold can arrive with little warning. Waiting until conditions deteriorate is often too late. Power outages, blocked roadways and dangerously low temperatures can increase the risk of frostbite, hypothermia, carbon monoxide poisoning and other life-threatening hazards. Cold weather can also disrupt utilities and communications, making it harder to access assistance without prior planning.
Federal and state authorities — including Ready.gov, FEMA, Red Cross, National Weather Service and GEMA — Georgia Winter Preparedness — consistently emphasize the importance of preparing before a storm occurs. A few simple steps taken today can greatly improve safety and resilience for you, your family, pets, neighbors and the Georgia Gwinnett College community.
Please take time now to review your winter preparedness plans and stay informed through official GGC communications and trusted weather sources.
Key steps to prepare
Home preparedness
- Assemble a winter emergency kit with water, nonperishable food, flashlights, batteries, blankets, medications and a first aid kit.
- Ensure heating systems are operational and test carbon monoxide detectors.
- Prepare for power outages with back up lighting, warm clothing, and household supplies.
- If you use a generator, operate it outdoors and at least 20 feet from windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Travel and vehicle preparedness
- Avoid non-essential travel during winter advisories or warnings.
- If travel is necessary, keep a winter car survival kit with blankets, food, water, flashlight, ice scraper, shovel, and jumper cables.
- Maintain at least a half-full gas tank to reduce freezing risk and stay warm if stranded.
During a power outage
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve food.
- Disconnect unnecessary appliances to prevent surges when power returns.
- Dress in layers and use blankets or sleeping bags to conserve warmth.
- Avoid open flames such as candles for light or heat.
Health and safety
- Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia: numbness, shivering, confusion, and pale or waxy skin.
- Red Cross Frostbite and Hypothermia Tips
- Limit time outdoors and stay dry — wet clothing accelerates heat loss.
Special considerations
- Older adults
- Check on older adults before, during and after a storm.
- Ensure they have adequate heating, medication and food/water supplies.
- Assist with mobility, especially if sidewalks and entrances are icy.
People with access and functional needs
- Plan for mobility, sensory or medical needs.
- Ensure backup power for medical devices and communication devices.
- Arrange for a buddy system to provide support during evacuations or power outages.
Pets
- Keep pets indoors whenever possible. Provide extra bedding and water.
- Prepare a small pet emergency kit with food, water, medications and comfort items.
- Never leave pets in a car during cold weather.