Wayne County Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) shares FEMA tips on Winter Weather:

Now that winter has officially arrived in the Midwest, it is important to remember that heavy snows, icy conditions and dangerously cold temperatures can occur at any time. To protect you and your loved ones from the effects of harsh winter weather, follow these safety tips:

• Have emergency supplies in place at home, at work, and in the car.

• Keep an emergency supply kit in your home that includes a battery-powered radio with extra batteries, canned food and a manual can opener, flashlights and battery-powered lamps for power failures, wood for fireplaces, and rock salt to melt ice and sand to improve traction.

• Make sure your car is in proper working condition and includes blankets, warm clothing, booster cables and tools, bottled water, dried fruits and nuts, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, flashlights and batteries, a shovel and ice scraper. Keep water, non-perishable food, and an extra set of warm clothes in the car in case you get stranded during winter weather. Also carry, car cell phone charger and cat litter or sand for better tire traction.

• Wear layers to protect yourself from the cold. A hat, scarf and mittens are also essential protection against winter weather.

• Know what to do before, during, and after a winter storm.

• Listen to local officials.

• Stay off the road during and after a winter storm.

• Have a carbon monoxide alarm in place, especially if using alternative heating devices.

• Use safe heating devices. Ensure they have an automatic tip over shut down feature.

• Winter fires can be deadly. When using your fireplace always keep a metal or heat tempered screen around it to stay safe.

• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from a fireplace, wood stove, or space heater.

• If you're running a portable generator, you need to have a working Carbon Monoxide alarm in your home.

• Keep generators outside at least 20 feet away from doors, windows, and vents to avoid accidental CO poisoning.

• For more information or to find a warming center near you please contact Wayne County DHSEM 734-728-3711 or visit our website at www.waynecounty.com