{"id":17088,"date":"2026-01-24T10:13:33","date_gmt":"2026-01-24T15:13:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/?page_id=17088"},"modified":"2026-02-05T17:35:46","modified_gmt":"2026-02-05T22:35:46","slug":"winterstormjan2026","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/winterstormjan2026\/","title":{"rendered":"January 2026 Winter Storm Response"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"pl-17088\"  class=\"panel-layout\" ><div id=\"pg-17088-0\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-17088-0\" ><div id=\"pgc-17088-0-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-17088-0-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child\" data-index=\"0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/winterstormjan2026\/#preparedness\">Winter Preparedness<\/a>\u00a0\u2666 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/winterstormjan2026\/#safety\">Cold Weather Safety<\/a> \u2666 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/winterstormjan2026\/#power\">Power Outage<\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/winterstormjan2026\/#bwa\">Boil Water Advisory<\/a>\u00a0\u2666 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/winterstormjan2026\/#vdh\">VDH Actions<\/a><\/p>\n<p>On January 22, Governor Spanberger issued <a href=\"https:\/\/www.governor.virginia.gov\/media\/governorvirginiagov\/governor-of-virginia\/pdf\/eo\/EO-11-Declaring-State-of-Emergency---2026-January-Winter-Weather.pdf\">Executive Order 11<\/a>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.governor.virginia.gov\/newsroom\/news-releases\/2026\/january-releases\/name-1111570-en.html\">declaring a state of emergency<\/a> in advance of the impending winter weather that impacted most of the Commonwealth beginning Saturday, January 24 and lasting through Monday, January 26. A second storm\u00a0 impacted areas mainly south of I-64 lasting beginning Friday, January 30 through Sunday, February 1.<\/p>\n<p>Extreme cold temperatures are expected to continue through Monday, February 2. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/winter-weather\/prevention\/\">Hypothermia<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/winter-weather\/prevention\/preventing-frostbite.html\">frostbite<\/a>\u00a0are real concerns. Focus on\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/winterstormjan2026\/#safety\">staying warm and dry<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>VDH is currently seeing increased visits to emergency departments for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/winterstormjan2026\/#safety\">hypothermia\/cold exposure<\/a>, and slips, trips, and falls.<\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Dr Webb Winter Storm Briefing\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/c_yxNiJF7NQ?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-17088-0-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"1\" ><div id=\"safety\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-17088-0-0-1\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h3 class=\"widget-title\">During the Snow:  Cold Weather Safety<\/h3>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>Cold temperatures affect everyone differently.\u00a0 Be sure to check on family, friends and neighbors.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/images\/wrn\/Infographics\/2023\/cold-vulnerable-actions.png\" alt=\"Cold Impacts: Vulnerable Populations: Everyone is at risk from the dangers of extreme cold, but these groups are more vulnerable than most: newborns, the elderly, people with chronic illness, outdoor workers, and the unhoused. Age and certain conditions make the body less able to regulate temperature. Dress in loose layers and cover all exposed skin. Consume hot foods and warm drinks, but avoid caffeine and alcohol. Limit or avoid time outdoors. Check on family, friends and neighbors.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-17088-0-0-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-accordion\" data-index=\"2\" ><div id=\"safety\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-17088-0-0-2\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-accordion so-widget-sow-accordion-default-1093c852c5aa-17088\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div>\n\t<div class=\"sow-accordion\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"stay-warm\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-stay-warm\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-stay-warm\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tStay Warm\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-stay-warm\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-stay-warm\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it can be produced. It is very important to remember to take caution during extremely cold temperatures and severe winter weather to prevent injuries and illness, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/winter-weather\/prevention\/\">hypothermia<\/a>\u00a0and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/winter-weather\/prevention\/preventing-frostbite.html\">frostbite<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12745 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_frostbite-hypothermia-1024x576.png\" alt=\"If someone might have frostbite or hypothermia, seek medical attention immediately! Get to a warm area. Remove wet clothing. Warm up with dry layers of blankets or clothing. Place skin affected by frostbite in warm water (not hot). Frostbite caution: do not use fireplaces or artificial heat sources for warming. Do not rub or put pressure on areas with frostbite.\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_frostbite-hypothermia-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_frostbite-hypothermia-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_frostbite-hypothermia-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_frostbite-hypothermia-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_frostbite-hypothermia.png 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Hypothermia occurs most commonly at very cold environmental temperatures, but can occur even at cool temperatures (above 40\u00b0F) if a person becomes chilled from rain, sweat, or submersion in cold water.<\/p>\n<p>Redness or pain in any skin area may be due to frostbite, an injury to the body that is caused by freezing. Seek medical care if you suspect frostbite or hypothermia.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12739 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2020_Dressing-for-cold-masks-2020-1024x535.png\" alt=\"Dressing for the Cold - Infographic. Adding layers will help keep you warm as the temperature drops. Chilly: 1-2 layers; outer layer to keep out wind, rain; long layer on legs; warm shoes (water proof). Cold: 2-3 layers; warm hat; gloves; outer layer to keep out wind, wet snow; 1-2 long layers on legs; boots (water-proof). Extreme cold: 3+ layers (1 insulating); warm hat; gloves; outer layer to keep out wind; 2+ long layers on legs; boots (water proof).\" width=\"640\" height=\"334\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2020_Dressing-for-cold-masks-2020-1024x535.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2020_Dressing-for-cold-masks-2020-300x157.png 300w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2020_Dressing-for-cold-masks-2020-768x401.png 768w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2020_Dressing-for-cold-masks-2020-1536x803.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2020_Dressing-for-cold-masks-2020.png 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>During the severe winter weather, try to stay indoors.\u00a0Limit your time outdoors.<\/li>\n<li>If you must go out, make sure your family is safe by dressing warmly and limiting exposure to the cold to prevent <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/winter-weather\/prevention\/preventing-frostbite.html\">frostbite<\/a>.\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/images\/ohx\/Preparedness\/Winter\/_images_wrn_social_media_cold_infographic.jpg\">Dress warmly<\/a> and in layers. Make sure you cover your head, fingers and toes to prevent <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/winter-weather\/prevention\/preventing-frostbite.html\">frostbite<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps.<\/li>\n<li>Be aware of the wind chill factor.<\/li>\n<li>Avoid getting wet and change out of wet clothes as soon as possible to prevent\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/winter-weather\/prevention\/\">hypothermia<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Take frequent breaks if <a href=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/images\/ohx\/Preparedness\/Winter\/_images_wrn_Infographics_2022_Safe-Shoveling-2022.png\">shoveling<\/a> snow or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/niosh\/cold-stress\/about\/index.html\">working outdoors<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li>If you have pets, bring them indoors. If you cannot bring them inside, provide adequate shelter to keep them warm and make sure they have access to unfrozen water.<\/li>\n<li>Eating healthy meals will help to keep your body temperature warm.<\/li>\n<li>It\u2019s important to stay hydrated even during the cold to prevent <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/winter-weather\/prevention\/\">hypothermia<\/a>. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. They cause your body to lose heat faster. Drink warm beverages or broth.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"shovel-safely\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-shovel-safely\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-shovel-safely\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tShovel Safely\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-shovel-safely\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-shovel-safely\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Cold weather puts an extra strain on the heart. If you have heart disease or high blood pressure, follow your doctor's advice about shoveling snow or performing other hard work in the cold.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/images\/wrn\/Infographics\/2022\/Safe-Shoveling-2022.png\" alt=\"Shovel smart! Shoveling heavy, wet snow can cause back injuries and heart attacks. Don\u2019t push yourself! Dress warmly, making sure to cover your head, fingers and toes. Stay hydrated, but avoid heavy meals right before or after shoveling. Move only small amounts of snow with each pass of the shovel. Take frequent breaks. Stop shoveling entirely if you feel exhausted!\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Stay safe while shoveling by following these tips:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\u200bCheck the weather, temperature, and wind chill before setting foot outside.<\/li>\n<li>Dress in layers of loose-fitting clothing.<\/li>\n<li>\u00a0Use the right tool and the proper technique. Choose a shovel with a small, plastic blade as it will weigh less than a shovel with a metal blade.<\/li>\n<li>Use a proper shoveling technique to reduce strain on the body.<\/li>\n<li>Don\u2019t overdo it. Take breaks to catch your breath and drink water.<\/li>\n<li>Try pushing the snow rather than lifting and throwing it.<\/li>\n<li>Know the signs of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/winter-weather\/prevention\/\">hypothermia<\/a>\u00a0and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/winter-weather\/prevention\/preventing-frostbite.html\">frostbite<\/a>. Hypothermia, or abnormally low body temperature, is a dangerous condition that can occur when a person is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Symptoms in adults include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, slurred speech, and drowsiness. Seek immediate medical attention if a person\u2019s temperature is below 95\u00b0 F.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Remember, your body is already working hard just to stay warm, so don't overdo it.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"slip-prevention\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-slip-prevention\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-slip-prevention\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSlip Prevention\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-slip-prevention\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-slip-prevention\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Walking on ice is extremely dangerous. Many injuries related to cold weather happen from falls on ice-covered sidewalks, steps, driveways, and porches. Icy sidewalks can be especially hazardous for the elderly.<\/p>\n<p>Keep your steps and walkways as free of ice as possible by using rock salt or another chemical de-icing compound. Sand may also be used on walkways to reduce the risk of slipping.<\/p>\n<p>Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/images\/wrn\/Infographics\/2023\/ice-slips.png\" alt=\"Don\u2019t slip! Icy surfaces can lead to serious injuries! Help prevent ice by salting walkways and turning off sprinklers in advance of the cold. Walk on treated or non-icy surfaces with better traction, if possible. Wear proper winter footwear with rubber treads. Take slow, short steps so that you\u2019ll be able to react to icy conditions.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Take these precautions to prevent slips, trips and falls:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Use caution on roads and sidewalks. They will remain slippery through the week.<\/li>\n<li>Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps.<\/li>\n<li>Plan your path to avoid slick areas if possible.<\/li>\n<li>If the area you are walking is icy or slick, keep feet close to ground, moving them in small steps keeping good balance.<\/li>\n<li>Take your time and pay attention to where you are going.<\/li>\n<li>Know where your feet are.<\/li>\n<li>Maintain three points of contact while getting in and out of vehicles and walking on stairs.<\/li>\n<li>Do <strong>not<\/strong> walk on any ice-covered body of water, such as ponds, pools, creeks, rivers, even puddles. They might appear frozen, but the ice will be too this to support you and can lead to injury or worse.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"prevent-illness\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-prevent-illness\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-prevent-illness\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPrevent Illness\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-prevent-illness\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-prevent-illness\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/epidemiology\/respiratory-diseases-in-virginia\/\">Respiratory viruses<\/a> such as COVID-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are common during winter as you spend more time indoors. Protect yourself and your family with these tips.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Stay up to date on your respiratory vaccines.\n<ul>\n<li>Everyone aged six months and older should get a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/epidemiology\/influenza-flu-in-virginia\/influenza-prevention-protect-yourself-and-others-from-getting-the-flu\/\">flu shot<\/a> every year, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/epidemiology\/influenza-flu-in-virginia\/influenza-prevention-protect-yourself-and-others-from-getting-the-flu\/#noflu\">with a few exceptions<\/a>. Talk to a healthcare provider about which flu vaccines are recommended for you and your family.<\/li>\n<li>People aged six months and older can receive the COVID-19 vaccine based on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/acip\/vaccine-recommendations\/shared-clinical-decision-making.html\">individual-based decision-making<\/a> with a healthcare provider.<\/li>\n<li>All adults aged 75 years and older are recommended to receive a single dose of one <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/epidemiology\/epidemiology\/epidemiology-fact-sheets\/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv\/\">RSV vaccine<\/a>. If you are 60-74 years old with a health condition, speak with your healthcare provider to decide if the RSV vaccine is the right choice for you. Pregnant women and parents of newborns should also talk with their provider about the benefits of the RSV vaccine.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li>Practice good hygiene\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Cover coughs and sneezes<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Wash or sanitize hands often<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Clean frequently touched surfaces often<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Keep reading about respiratory viruses and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/respiratory-viruses\/prevention\/hygiene.html\">hygiene<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li>Stay home if you are sick.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Asthma<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Cold, dry air can irritate the airways causing coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. If you have asthma, breathing in cold, dry air can trigger an asthma attack.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>If you must go outside, use a scarf wrapped loosely around your nose and mouth. The scarf will warm the air before it enters your lungs. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth.<\/li>\n<li>Check with your healthcare provider about using your quick-relief inhaler about 15-30 minutes before going outside.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent asthma attacks when outside in winter weather and remember to follow your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/asthma\/living-with\/index.html\">Asthma Action Plan<\/a>.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"travel-safety\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-travel-safety\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-travel-safety\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTravel Safety\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-travel-safety\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-travel-safety\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>VDOT provides weather advisories on <a href=\"https:\/\/511.vdot.virginia.gov\/\">current road conditions<\/a> and weather forecasts. Travelers can easily access travel conditions by dialing 5-1-1,\u00a024 hours a day, 7 days a week. This information is also available on the website at\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.virginiadot.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.virginiadot.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/images\/wrn\/Infographics\/2022\/Ice-n-Snow-2022.png\" alt=\"Ice and Snow, Take It Slow. Did you know? Each year in the United States, there are over 1,000 deaths and 100,000 injuries due to vehicle crashes during winter weather. Clean off your vehicle before driving. Flying snow from cars causes accidents. Keep it slow, and don\u2019t use cruise control. Roads can be slick even if they just look wet. Leave extra distance between vehicles. Stay especially far from snow plows.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" \/><\/p>\n<ul class=\"nested-list\">\n<li class=\"level-1\">Do not travel in low visibility conditions.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Avoid traveling on ice-covered roads, overpasses, and bridges if at all possible.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Never pour water on your windshield to remove ice or snow\u2014this can cause your windshield to shatter.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">If you must travel by car, use tire chains and take a mobile phone with you.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">If you must travel, let someone know your destination and when you expect to arrive. Ask them to notify authorities if you are late.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Check and restock the\u00a0<a class=\"tp-link-policy\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ready.gov\/car\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-domain-ext=\"gov\">winter emergency supplies in your car<\/a>\u00a0before you leave.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Always carry extra warm clothing and blankets with you. Don't rely on a car to provide enough heat. The car could break down.<\/li>\n<li>Allow extra time and follow these tips from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdot.virginia.gov\/travel-traffic\/driver-safety\/weather\/\">Virginia Department of Transportation<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"pet-safety\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-pet-safety\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-pet-safety\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPet Safety\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-pet-safety\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-pet-safety\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Don't forget about your pets this winter! Make sure they have a warm, dry place to rest with plenty of food and water.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/images\/wrn\/Infographics\/2022\/winter-pets-2022.png\" alt=\"Don\u2019t forget your pets! Even with a natural fur coat, winter can be deadly for your pets unless proper care is given. Keep them warm and dry, and indoors whenever possible. Provide plenty of food and water. Dehydration is especially dangerous in winter. When outside, keep them bundled up. Limit outside time, and thoroughly clean, including paws, when bringing them in.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" \/><\/p>\n<p>If you have pets, bring them indoors. If you cannot bring them inside, provide adequate shelter to keep them warm and make sure they have access to unfrozen water.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"work-safely\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-work-safely\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-work-safely\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWork Safely\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-work-safely\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-work-safely\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/images\/wrn\/Infographics\/winter-worker-safety.png\" alt=\"Winter Safety For Workers: 1) Wear proper footwear for traction. 2) Drink a warm beverage, stay hydrated. 3) Dress in layers. 4) Take frequent short breaks. 5) Watch for signs of hypothermia. 6) Have a winter emergency supply kit in your vehicle.\" width=\"1400\" height=\"787\" \/><\/p>\n<p>If you must work in cold environments or temperatures, take these precautions:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"nested-list\">\n<li class=\"level-1\">Wear appropriate clothing.\n<ul>\n<li class=\"level-2\">Wear several layers of loose clothing for better insulation.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-2\">Some clothing may restrict movement, which could be dangerous.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Make sure to protect the ears, face, hands, and feet.\n<ul>\n<li class=\"level-2\">Boots should be waterproof and insulated.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-2\">Wear a hat. Hats reduce body heat escaping from your head.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Move into warm locations during breaks.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Carry extra socks, gloves, hat, jacket, clothes, and blankets.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Include a thermometer and chemical hot packs in your first aid kit.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Avoid touching cold metal surfaces with bare skin.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-17088-0-0-3\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-accordion\" data-index=\"3\" ><div id=\"bwa\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-17088-0-0-3\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-accordion so-widget-sow-accordion-default-1093c852c5aa-17088\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h3 class=\"widget-title\">Boil Water Advisories<\/h3><div>\n\t<div class=\"sow-accordion\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"what-does-boil-water-advisory-mean\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-what-does-boil-water-advisory-mean\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-what-does-boil-water-advisory-mean\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhat Does Boil Water Advisory Mean\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-what-does-boil-water-advisory-mean\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-what-does-boil-water-advisory-mean\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>If under a boil water advisory, residents can safely use the water supply for bathing, toilet flushing, laundry, and other uses not associated with consumption or ingestion.<\/p>\n<p>Do <strong>not<\/strong> use the water for activities associated with consumption, including drinking, beverage and food preparation (including baby formula and juice), dishwashing, cleaning food contact surfaces, making ice or coffee, and brushing teeth. Parents are encouraged to closely monitor children who take a bath to avoid ingestion at this time.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12356 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"During a boil water advisory: Use bottled\/boiled water for drinking, brushing teeth, washing fruits\/veggies, preparing food, mixing baby formula, making ice, giving water to pets, and coffee makers. Use tap water for washing clothes, taking showers (adults and older children; do NOT drink the water), flushing toilets, car washing, household cleaning and water plants.\" width=\"640\" height=\"640\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-400x400.png 400w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-600x600.png 600w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory.png 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/>\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12353 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-es-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\u00bfSabe qu\u00e9 tipo de agua debe utilizar en caso de aviso de hervir el agua para el consumo? Vea la foto y obtenga algunos consejos r\u00e1pidos\" width=\"640\" height=\"640\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-es-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-es-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-es-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-es-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-es-400x400.png 400w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-es-600x600.png 600w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/01\/Boil-Water-Advisory-es.png 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"heading-5kqliaqe9u\">Drinking and cooking<\/h3>\n<p>Use commercially bottled water or boiled water for drinking and to prepare and cook food.<\/p>\n<p>Breastfeeding is the\u00a0<a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/breastfeeding\/php\/guidelines-recommendations\/feeding-your-child-safely-during-a-disaster.html\">best option for feeding an infant<\/a>. If you feed your child formula, provide ready-to-use formula if possible.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"heading-phmp01txvc\">Handwashing<\/h3>\n<p>In many cases, you can use tap water and soap to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/clean-hands\/about\/index.html\">wash your hands<\/a>\u00a0during a boil water advisory. Follow the advice from your local officials.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"heading-swkj8wnhvk\">Bathing and showering<\/h3>\n<p>There is no need to boil water for bathing or showering. Adults, teens, and older children, can shower or bathe, though they should avoid getting water in the mouth or swallowing the water. Use caution when bathing infants and young children. Consider giving them a sponge bath to reduce the chance of them swallowing water.<\/p>\n<p>However, care should be taken to prevent water from getting into deep open or post-surgical wounds. Consult your physician or health care provider for wound care instructions.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"heading-hpwuphwtsl\">Brushing teeth<\/h3>\n<p>Brush your teeth using boiled water or commercially bottled water. Do not use tap water that you have not boiled first.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"heading-nidhdfdogt\">Washing dishes<\/h3>\n<p>If possible, use disposable plates, cups, and utensils during a boil water advisory.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/hygiene\/faq\/index.html#cdc_faqs_cat3-sanitizing\">Sanitize<\/a>\u00a0all baby bottles.<\/p>\n<p>Dishwashers are generally safe to use if they have a sanitizing cycle or reach a final rinse temperature of at least 150\u00b0F (66\u00b0C). Check the manual or contact the manufacturer to find out what temperature your dishwater reaches.<\/p>\n<p>To wash dishes by hand:<\/p>\n<ol class=\"nested-list nested-list--letters \">\n<li class=\"level-1\">Wash and rinse the dishes as you normally would using hot water.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">In a separate basin, add 1 teaspoon of unscented household liquid bleach for each gallon of warm water.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Soak the rinsed dishes in the water for at least one minute.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Let the dishes air dry completely before using them again.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3 id=\"heading-6bpuk7fxny\">Laundry<\/h3>\n<p>It is safe to wash clothes as usual.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"heading-az6nktt6ia\">Cleaning<\/h3>\n<p>Clean washable toys and surfaces with:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"nested-list\">\n<li class=\"level-1\">Commercially bottled water,<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Boiled water, or<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Water that has been\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/about\/index.html#cdc_health_safety_special_topic_types-disinfect\">disinfected with bleach<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"heading-zuo5-cxgpm\">Caring for pets<\/h3>\n<p>Give pets commercially bottled water or boiled water that has cooled. Pets can get sick from some of the same germs as people or spread germs to people.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"heading-z_tniwimbi\">Caring for your garden and houseplants<\/h3>\n<p>You can use tap water for houseplants and gardens, including watering plants you eat.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"boil-water-instructions-and-faqs\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-boil-water-instructions-and-faqs\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-boil-water-instructions-and-faqs\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBoil Water Instructions and FAQs\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-boil-water-instructions-and-faqs\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-boil-water-instructions-and-faqs\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>After an emergency, your tap water may not be available or safe to use.\u00a0Use bottled, boiled, or treated water to avoid getting sick.\u00a0Boiling is the best way to kill germs in water.<\/p>\n<p>If your residence is under a boil water advisory, <strong>do not<\/strong> use that water to drink, wash dishes, brush your teeth, wash or prepare food, wash your hands, make ice, or make baby formula.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, use bottled,\u00a0<a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/about\/index.html#cdc_health_safety_special_topic_how-boil\">boiled<\/a>, or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/about\/index.html#cdc_health_safety_special_topic_types-disinfect\">treated<\/a>\u00a0water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"heading-rr17frhnki\">Steps for boiling water<\/h3>\n<p><strong>If the water is cloudy<\/strong>, first filter it through a clean cloth, paper towel, or coffee filter. Another option is to let it settle. Then, draw off the clear water and follow the steps below.<\/p>\n<ol class=\"nested-list nested-list--letters \">\n<li class=\"level-1\">Bring clear water to a rolling boil for 1 minute (at elevations above 6,500 feet, boil for 3 minutes).<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Let the boiled water cool.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Store the boiled water in\u00a0<a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/about\/how-to-create-and-store-an-emergency-water-supply.html#cdc_health_safety_special_topic_risks-cleaning-and-sanitizing-a-water-storage-container-before-use\">clean, sanitized containers<\/a>\u00a0with tight covers.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Watch a video of these instructions <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/e12QsT9PL0c?si=vGt3Ifum9Nks-5ff\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/drinking-water\/boil-water-faqs\/\">Boil Water FAQs<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/media\/pdfs\/make-water-safe-during-emergency-p.pdf\">Make Water Safe During an Emergency<\/a>\u00a0(<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/media\/pdfs\/make-water-safe-during-emergency-spanish-p.pdf\">en espa\u00f1ol<\/a>)<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/media\/pdfs\/334749-B_UseSafeWater-OnePager-508.pdf\">Use Safe Water During an Emergency<\/a> \u00a0(<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/media\/pdfs\/16_262392-b_drink-safe-water_spflyer_508.pdf\">en espa\u00f1ol<\/a>)<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"emergency-disinfection-of-water\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-emergency-disinfection-of-water\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-emergency-disinfection-of-water\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tEmergency Disinfection of Water\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-emergency-disinfection-of-water\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-emergency-disinfection-of-water\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/media\/images\/2024\/08\/19_310593-makesafe-1200x675-1.png\" alt=\"Make water safe during an emergency: use bottled water for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth. If you don't have bottled water, boil your water for 1 minute. If you can't boil, add 8 drops unscented household bleach to 1 gallon of water. Mix well. Wait at least 30 minutes before using. If you are using portable water filter, chose one labeled to remove parasites.\" width=\"1201\" height=\"676\" \/><\/p>\n<p>In an emergency situation where regular water service has been interrupted \u2013 like a hurricane, flood, or water pipe breakage \u2013 local authorities may recommend using only bottled water, boiled water, or disinfected water until regular water service is restored.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/ground-water-and-drinking-water\/emergency-disinfection-drinking-water\">These instructions<\/a> show you how to boil and disinfect water to kill most disease-causing microorganisms that may be present in the water. However, boiling or disinfection will not destroy other contaminants, such as heavy metals, salts, and most other chemicals.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/espanol.epa.gov\/espanol\/desinfeccion-de-agua-potable-en-situaciones-de-emergencia\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\">Informaci\u00f3n relacionada disponible en espa\u00f1ol<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"infant-feeding-during-a-boil-water-advisory\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-infant-feeding-during-a-boil-water-advisory\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-infant-feeding-during-a-boil-water-advisory\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tInfant feeding during a Boil Water Advisory\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-infant-feeding-during-a-boil-water-advisory\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-infant-feeding-during-a-boil-water-advisory\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/breastfeeding\/php\/guidelines-recommendations\/feeding-your-child-safely-during-a-disaster.html\">These tips<\/a> provide information for feeding your young child during a boil water advisory.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/infant-feeding-emergencies-toolkit\/media\/pdfs\/FAQ-IYCF-E-508.pdf\">Infant Feeding FAQs<\/a>\u00a0(<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/infant-feeding-emergencies-toolkit\/media\/pdfs\/common-feeding-faqs-es-508.pdf\">en espa\u00f1ol<\/a>)<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/nutrition\/emergencies-infant-feeding\/downloads\/pages\/breastfeeding-during-emergencies-IYCF-E-H.pdf\">Breastfeeding During Disasters<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/about\/index.html\">How to Make Water Safe in an Emergency<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/es\/about\/how-to-make-water-safe.html\">en espa\u00f1ol<\/a>)<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/media\/pdfs\/make-water-safe-during-emergency-p.pdf\">Fact Sheet:\u00a0 How to Make Water Safe in an Emergency<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/media\/pdfs\/make-water-safe-during-emergency-spanish-p.pdf\">en espa\u00f1ol<\/a>)<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/media\/pdfs\/334749-B_UseSafeWater-OnePager-508.pdf\">Use Safe Water During an Emergency<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/media\/pdfs\/16_262392-b_drink-safe-water_spflyer_508.pdf\">en espa\u00f1ol<\/a>)<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/nutrition\/emergencies-infant-feeding\/downloads\/pages\/Prepare-and-Store-Powdered-Infant-Formula-IYCF-E-H.pdf\">How to prepare and store powdered infant formula during and emergency<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/nutrition\/emergencies-infant-feeding\/downloads\/pages\/es\/emergency-formula-preparation-es-508.pdf\">en espa\u00f1ol<\/a>)<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/infant-feeding-emergencies-toolkit\/media\/pdfs\/Clean-Infant-Feeding-ItemsIYCF-E-508.pdf\">How to Clean Infant Feeding Items During Emergencies<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/infant-feeding-emergencies-toolkit\/media\/pdfs\/clean-infant-feeding-itemsIYCFE-es-508.pdf\">en espa\u00f1ol<\/a>)<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"what-to-do-after-a-boil-water-advisory\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-what-to-do-after-a-boil-water-advisory\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-what-to-do-after-a-boil-water-advisory\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhat to do after a Boil Water Advisory\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-what-to-do-after-a-boil-water-advisory\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-what-to-do-after-a-boil-water-advisory\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Follow recommendations from your water utility provider.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"water-supply\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-water-supply\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-water-supply\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWater Supply\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-water-supply\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-water-supply\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Extreme cold can cause water pipes in your home to freeze and sometimes rupture or break. When you are expecting very cold or freezing temperatures:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"nested-list\">\n<li class=\"level-1\">Leave all water taps slightly open so they drip continuously.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Keep the temperature inside your home warm.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Allow heated air to reach pipes. For example, open cabinet doors beneath the kitchen and bathroom sinks.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">If your pipes do freeze, do not thaw them with a torch. Thaw the pipes slowly with warm air from an electric hair dryer.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">If you cannot thaw your pipes, or the pipes have broken open, use bottled water or get water from a neighbor's home.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">As an emergency measure, if no other water is available, snow can be melted for water. Bringing water to a rolling boil for one minute will kill most germs but won't get rid of chemicals sometimes found in snow.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Learn more on how to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/about\/index.html\">use safe water<\/a>\u00a0after a natural disaster or emergency.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-17088-0-0-4\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"4\" ><div id=\"power\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-17088-0-0-4\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h3 class=\"widget-title\">Power Outage<\/h3>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>Power outages are common after a big winter storm. If you lose power, make sure to be careful when using alternative heat sources and practice portable generator safety. Once you and your family are safe, check in with others in your neighborhood to make sure they are okay.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/images\/wrn\/Infographics\/2021\/after-the-storm-winter1.png\" alt=\"After the Winter Storm: Power Outage. 1) Be careful with heat sources: candles and space heaters are a fire risk. Also stay warm by bundling up and keeping doors closed, placing towels in cracks. 2) Practice portable generator safety: use outdoors, at least 20 feet away from doors\/windows\/garages to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Follow instructions on proper use. 3) Check on neighbors: once your family is safe, check on your neighbors and make sure they are OK.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-17088-0-0-5\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-accordion\" data-index=\"5\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-accordion so-widget-sow-accordion-default-1093c852c5aa-17088\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div>\n\t<div class=\"sow-accordion\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"food-safety\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-food-safety\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-food-safety\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFood Safety\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-food-safety\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-food-safety\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\tIt is important to take careful precautions to ensure <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/foodsafety\/pdfs\/eat_safe-r5-infographic2-h.pdf\">food safety after a power outage<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/food-safety\/media\/pdfs\/eat-safe-infographic-spanish-h.pdf\">en espa\u00f1ol<\/a>).\u00a0 Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.\n\nIf the doors stay closed, food will stay safe up to:\n<ul>\n \t<li>Four hours in a refrigerator,<\/li>\n \t<li>24 hours in a half-full freezer, and<\/li>\n \t<li>48 hours in a full freezer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nDiscard any food that has been exposed to temperatures 40\u00b0 or higher for two hours or more, and any food that has an unusual odor, color or texture.\n\nNever taste food to know if it is safe to eat. Just remember, \u201cWhen in doubt, throw it out!\u201d\n\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/environmental-health\/food-safety-in-virginia\/emergencies\/\">Here<\/a> are basic tips for keeping food safe <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/food-safety\/foods\/keep-food-safe-after-emergency.html\">following a power outage<\/a>.\n\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/media\/72124\/download\">Food and Water Safety During Power Outages<\/a>\u00a0(<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/media\/72126\/download\">en espa\u00f1ol<\/a>)\n\nHave alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.\n\nIn general, throw out refrigerated medicine when the power is out for a day or more, unless your healthcare provider or the drug\u2019s label says otherwise. Consult your healthcare provider for your specific needs.\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"heat-your-home-safely\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-heat-your-home-safely\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-heat-your-home-safely\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHeat Your Home Safely\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-heat-your-home-safely\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-heat-your-home-safely\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Have at least one of the following heat sources in case the power goes out:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"nested-list\">\n<li class=\"level-1\">Extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm winter coats<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Fireplace that is up to code with plenty of dry firewood or a gas log fireplace<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Portable space heaters or kerosene heaters. Check with your local fire department to make sure that kerosene heaters are legal in your area.<\/li>\n<li>Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Use space heaters safely.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"nested-list\">\n<li class=\"level-1\">Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches and non-glowing elements.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Keep heat sources, like space heaters, at least 3 feet away from drapes, furniture, bedding, or other flammable materials. Never cover your space heater.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Never place a space heater on top of furniture or near water.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Never leave children unattended near a space heater.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Make sure that the cord of an electric space heater is not a tripping hazard, but do not run the cord under carpets or rugs.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Avoid using extension cords to plug in your space heater.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">If your space heater has a damaged electrical cord or produces sparks, do not use it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Know shelter locations in your community that open during inclement weather or outages. Go to a shelter if you are not able to heat your home safely.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"generator-safety\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-generator-safety\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-generator-safety\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGenerator Safety\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-generator-safety\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-generator-safety\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-12870\" src=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/Generator-Safety-Power-Outage_Facebook-100-1024x538.jpg\" alt=\"Use generators safely if your power is out! Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, electrocution, &amp; fires. NEVER use them indoors. Place them at least 20 feet from your home, away from windows. Do not hook them up directly to home power supply.\" width=\"640\" height=\"336\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/Generator-Safety-Power-Outage_Facebook-100-1024x538.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/Generator-Safety-Power-Outage_Facebook-100-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/Generator-Safety-Power-Outage_Facebook-100-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/Generator-Safety-Power-Outage_Facebook-100.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Use generators and other appliances safely.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"nested-list\">\n<li class=\"level-1\">Use generators outdoors. Never using generators, gas or charcoal grills, camp stoves, or similar devices inside your home, in basements, in garages, or near windows. The fumes are deadly.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Generators should be located at least 20 feet from any window, door, or vent and in a space where rain and snow will not reach them.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Protect yourself from\u00a0<a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/carbon-monoxide\/about\/index.html\">carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning<\/a>\u00a0by installing a battery-operated CO detector.<\/li>\n<li>VDH recommends <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/severe-weather-preparedness\/carbon-monoxide-poisoning\/\">these precautions<\/a> to help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Plug in appliances to the generator using individual heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Do not use the generator or appliances if they are wet.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"carbon-monoxide-exposure\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-carbon-monoxide-exposure\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-carbon-monoxide-exposure\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCarbon Monoxide Exposure\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-carbon-monoxide-exposure\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-carbon-monoxide-exposure\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that is poisonous to breathe. Deadly levels of carbon monoxide can quickly build up when the exhaust from grills or generators is not properly vented. The gas emitted by these sources can linger for hours, even after the generator or grill has shut off. Operate all gasoline-powered devices such as generators outdoors and never bring them indoors.<\/p>\n<p>Depending on the level of exposure, carbon monoxide may cause:<\/p>\n<div class=\"RowWithColumns\">\n<div class=\"Column\">\n<ul type=\"disc\">\n<li>Fatigue<\/li>\n<li>Weakness<\/li>\n<li>Chest pains for those with heart disease<\/li>\n<li>Shortness of breath upon exertion<\/li>\n<li>Nausea<\/li>\n<li>Vomiting<\/li>\n<li>Headaches<\/li>\n<li>Confusion<\/li>\n<li>Lack of coordination<\/li>\n<li>Impaired vision<\/li>\n<li>Loss of consciousness<\/li>\n<li>In severe cases, death<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>VDH recommends\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/severe-weather-preparedness\/carbon-monoxide-poisoning\/\">these precautions<\/a>\u00a0to help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"light-your-home-safely\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-light-your-home-safely\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-light-your-home-safely\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLight Your Home Safely\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-light-your-home-safely\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-light-your-home-safely\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>If there is a power failure:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"nested-list\">\n<li class=\"level-1\">Use battery-powered flashlights or lanterns rather than candles, if possible. Candles can lead to house fires.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">If you do use candles, never leave lit candles unattended.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Visit\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/natural-disasters\/response\/what-to-do-protect-yourself-during-a-power-outage.html\">What to Do to Protect Yourself During a Power Outage<\/a>\u00a0for more information on power outage safety.<\/li>\n<li>Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from an electrical surge.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"infant-feeding-during-an-emergency\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-infant-feeding-during-an-emergency\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-infant-feeding-during-an-emergency\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tInfant Feeding During an Emergency\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-infant-feeding-during-an-emergency\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-infant-feeding-during-an-emergency\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Natural disasters can make it hard for parents and caregivers to feed their infants and young children safely. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/breastfeeding\/php\/guidelines-recommendations\/feeding-your-child-safely-during-a-disaster.html\">These tips<\/a> provide information for feeding your young child during an emergency.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/118\/Breastfeeding-During-a-Disaster-and-Other-Emergencies.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Breastfeeding During a Disaster and Other Emergencies<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/infant-feeding-emergencies-toolkit\/media\/pdfs\/FAQ-IYCF-E-508.pdf\">Infant Feeding FAQs<\/a>\u00a0(<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/infant-feeding-emergencies-toolkit\/media\/pdfs\/common-feeding-faqs-es-508.pdf\">en espa\u00f1ol<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/118\/Cup-Feeding-Infants-During-Emergencies.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cup Feeding Infants During Emergencies<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/118\/Cleaning-Infant-Feeding-Items.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cleaning Infant Feeding Items During Emergencies<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/118\/Prepare-and-Store-Powdered-Infant-Formula-in-Emergencies.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Prepare and Store Powdered Infant Formula in Emergencies<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"conserve-heat\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-conserve-heat\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-conserve-heat\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tConserve Heat\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-conserve-heat\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-conserve-heat\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Here are additional ways you can conserve heat in your home during a power outage:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"nested-list\">\n<li class=\"level-1\">Some gas-fueled heaters, such as vent-less gas fireplaces, require some ventilation. Otherwise, if you don't need extra ventilation, keep as much heat as possible inside your home.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Avoid unnecessarily opening doors or windows.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Close off unneeded rooms.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Close draperies or cover windows with blankets at night.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/images\/wrn\/Infographics\/2020\/WarmWithNoPower2020.png\" alt=\"Staying warm when the power is out. Close blinds or curtains to keep in some heat. Close off rooms to avoid wasting heat. Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Eat and drink; food provides energy to warm the body; avoid caffeine and alcohol. Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors.\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" \/><\/p>\n<h4>Babies<\/h4>\n<p>Infants less than one year old should never sleep in a cold room because they lose body heat more easily than adults. Follow these tips to keep your baby safe and warm during the extreme cold:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"nested-list\">\n<li class=\"level-1\">Remove any pillows or other soft bedding. These can increase the risk of smothering and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/sudden-infant-death\/about\/index.html\">Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Dress babies in warmer clothing such as footed pajamas, one-piece wearable blankets, or sleep sacks.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Try to maintain a warm temperature inside your home. If you're not able to keep your home warm, make temporary arrangements to stay elsewhere.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">In an emergency, you can keep your baby warm using your own body heat. If you must sleep, take precautions to prevent rolling on or smothering your baby.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>Older Adults<\/h4>\n<p>Older adults often make less body heat because of a slower metabolism and less physical activity. Check on older friends and neighbors often to make sure their homes are heated properly.<\/p>\n<p>If you are over 65 years of age, check the temperature in your home often during extremely cold weather.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"water-supply\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-water-supply\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-water-supply\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWater Supply\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-water-supply\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-water-supply\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Extreme cold can cause water pipes in your home to freeze and sometimes rupture or break. When you are expecting very cold or freezing temperatures:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"nested-list\">\n<li class=\"level-1\">Leave all water taps slightly open so they drip continuously.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Keep the temperature inside your home warm.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Allow heated air to reach pipes. For example, open cabinet doors beneath the kitchen and bathroom sinks.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">If your pipes do freeze, do not thaw them with a torch. Thaw the pipes slowly with warm air from an electric hair dryer.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">If you cannot thaw your pipes, or the pipes have broken open, use bottled water or get water from a neighbor's home.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">As an emergency measure, if no other water is available, snow can be melted for water. Bringing water to a rolling boil for one minute will kill most germs but won't get rid of chemicals sometimes found in snow.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Learn more on how to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/water-emergency\/about\/index.html\">use safe water<\/a>\u00a0after a natural disaster or emergency.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-17088-0-0-6\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"6\" ><div id=\"preparedness\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-17088-0-0-6\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h3 class=\"widget-title\">Before the Storm:  Winter Preparedness<\/h3>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>The Virginia Department of Health offers these <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/blog\/2026\/01\/22\/winter-is-coming-are-you-ready\/\">winter safety tips<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How to prepare for winter storm\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/ZNPrwmW6Htc?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-17088-0-0-7\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-accordion\" data-index=\"7\" ><div id=\"safety\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-17088-0-0-7\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-accordion so-widget-sow-accordion-default-1093c852c5aa-17088\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div>\n\t<div class=\"sow-accordion\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"understand-the-weather\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-understand-the-weather\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-understand-the-weather\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tUnderstand the Weather\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-understand-the-weather\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-understand-the-weather\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>If a winter storm heads your way, make sure you understand the the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/lwx\/warningsdefined\">warnings, watches and advisories<\/a>. Winter storms, including blizzards, can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and high winds.<\/p>\n<p>Be sure you have multiple ways to receive alerts. Before a storm, charge all phones, computers and radios.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12747 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2021_ww-winter.png\" alt=\"Winter Storm Watch means be prepared. A Winter Storm Watch is issued when heavy snow, sleet, or freezing rain is possible. Be prepared to adjust travel plans in case a Warning is issued. Winter Storm Warning means take action! A Winter Storm Warning is issued when heavy snow, sleet, or freezing rain is expected. Travel will become dangerous. Delay or adjust travel plans until conditions improve.\" width=\"2500\" height=\"1406\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2021_ww-winter.png 2500w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2021_ww-winter-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2021_ww-winter-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2021_ww-winter-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2021_ww-winter-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2021_ww-winter-2048x1152.png 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2500px) 100vw, 2500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/images\/wrn\/Infographics\/2021\/ww-windchill.png\" alt=\"A Wind Chill Watch is issued when very cold air and wind is possible. Check the forecast, and be prepared in case a Warning is issued. A Wind Chill Warning is issued when very cold air and wind is expected. Conditions could lead to frostbite or hypothermia. Limit time outside, dress in layers, and cover up exposed skin.\" width=\"2500\" height=\"1406\" \/><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"make-a-plan\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-make-a-plan\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-make-a-plan\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMake a Plan\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-make-a-plan\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-make-a-plan\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Make sure you have\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/winter-weather\/safety\/index.html\">an emergency plan<\/a>, listen to weather forecasts regularly, limit your time outside, and have an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/severe-weather-preparedness\/preparing-your-emergency-supply-kit\/\">emergency supply kit<\/a>\u00a0on hand.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12738 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_winter-timeline-1024x576.png\" alt=\"A few days out: if the forecast calls for winter weather, start preparing now. Have emergency supplies for your home &amp; car. Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replenish fuel for your car and heating sources. The day before: forecast accuracy continues to improve, so keep checking the latest. Adjust plans. Have multiple ways to receive Warnings. Bring pets indoors and ensure they have water. During and after: remain vigilant and stay informed. Drive only if necessary. Check on neighbors and family. Properly ventilate emergency heat sources. Keep generators at least 20 feet from your home. Take it easy when shoveling.\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_winter-timeline-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_winter-timeline-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_winter-timeline-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_winter-timeline-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_winter-timeline.png 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, home-use medical devices, and vitamins. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.<\/li>\n<li>If power lines are down, call your local utility and emergency services. Have extra blankets and warm winter coats on hand to stay warm during power outages.<\/li>\n<li>If using a portable space heater, make sure it has an automatic shut-off switch and non-glowing elements and is placed at least three feet away from drapes, furniture, bedding, or other flammable materials.<\/li>\n<li>Never using generators, gas or charcoal grills, camp stoves, or similar devices inside your home, in basements, in garages, or near windows. The fumes are deadly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12748 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_4Ps.png\" alt=\"Protect people, pets, pipes and plants from cold weather. People: 1) Minimize time outdoors. 2) Prepare for power outages. 3) Check on the elderly and other vulnerable people to make sure they're ok. Pets: 1) Keep your pets warm, dry and indoors as much as possible. 2) Ensure their food and water doesn't freeze. 3) Limit outside time and keep them bundled up. Pipes: 1) Insulate pipes if possible. 2) Open up sink cabinets to expose pipes to heated air. 3) Disconnect hoses &amp; turn off water to sprinklers. Plants: 1) Know their temperature thresholds. 2) If possible, cover them before the cold weather sets in to help retain some heat.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_4Ps.png 1920w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_4Ps-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_4Ps-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_4Ps-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2023_4Ps-1536x864.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"prepare-your-home\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-prepare-your-home\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-prepare-your-home\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPrepare Your Home\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-prepare-your-home\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-prepare-your-home\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Start your winter preparations by securing your house. Winter is when most home fires happen, and heating is the second leading cause of home fires.\u00a0 Check out this\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.usfa.fema.gov\/downloads\/pdf\/publications\/home-fire-safety-poster-brochure.pdf\">Home Fire Safety Guide<\/a>\u00a0for tips on ways to keep your home safe.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12740 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2021_winterize-your-home-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Winterize your home. Inspect your chimney. Caulk and weather strip doors\/windows. Insulate exposed pipes. Insulate your attic. Clean out gutters. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors (with battery backups). Gather supplies.\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2021_winterize-your-home-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2021_winterize-your-home-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2021_winterize-your-home-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2021_winterize-your-home-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/images_wrn_Infographics_2021_winterize-your-home.png 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Here are other ways to keep your home warm and safe this winter:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Install a smoke detector and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/environmental-health\/public-health-toxicology\/carbon-monoxide\/\">carbon monoxide<\/a>\u00a0detector and make sure the batteries are working.<\/li>\n<li>Never leave lit candles or other flames unattended.<\/li>\n<li>Have your chimney or flue inspected every year.<\/li>\n<li>Keep blinds and curtains open during the day to absorb heat from the sun. Close them at night to keep the heat from escaping.<\/li>\n<li>To save on heating bills, close the doors and shut the vents of rooms you are not using. Keep the basement door closed.<\/li>\n<li>Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows.<\/li>\n<li>Insulate walls and attics.<\/li>\n<li>Insulate any water lines that run along exterior walls so your water supply will be less likely to freeze.<\/li>\n<li>Repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on your home or other structure during a storm.<\/li>\n<li>Replenish fuel for your heating sources.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel\n\t\t\t\t\t\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-anchor-id=\"vehicle-preparedness\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header-container\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-header\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" id=\"accordion-label-vehicle-preparedness\" aria-controls=\"accordion-content-vehicle-preparedness\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-title sow-accordion-title-icon-left\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tVehicle Preparedness\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-open-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf218;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-close-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sow-icon-ionicons\" data-sow-icon=\"&#xf209;\"\n\t\t \n\t\taria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"sow-accordion-panel-content\"\n\t\t\t\trole=\"region\"\n\t\t\t\taria-labelledby=\"accordion-label-vehicle-preparedness\"\n\t\t\t\tid=\"accordion-content-vehicle-preparedness\"\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"display: none;\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sow-accordion-panel-border\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Make sure your car is\u00a0<u><a href=\"https:\/\/wwwnc.cdc.gov\/travel\/page\/travel-to-cold-climates\">travel<\/a><\/u>\u00a0ready for the winter.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Check the forecast and road conditions before you leave.<\/li>\n<li>Check antifreeze level and have radiator system serviced.<\/li>\n<li>Replace worn tires and check tire air pressure.<\/li>\n<li class=\"level-1\">Always carry extra warm clothing and blankets with you. Don't rely on a car to provide enough heat. The car could break down.<\/li>\n<li>Keep an emergency kit for your car.<\/li>\n<li>Before the storm hits, replenish fuel for your car.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12605 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/Vehicle-emergency-kit.png\" alt=\"Emergency Kit for winter driving should include an ice scraper, flashlight, bottled water, blanket, flares, snacks, first aid kit, batteries, and jumper cables.\" width=\"784\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/Vehicle-emergency-kit.png 784w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/Vehicle-emergency-kit-300x201.png 300w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/Vehicle-emergency-kit-768x514.png 768w, https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2025\/02\/Vehicle-emergency-kit-272x182.png 272w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 784px) 100vw, 784px\" \/><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-17088-0-0-8\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-last-child\" data-index=\"8\" ><div id=\"vdh\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-17088-0-0-8\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h3 class=\"widget-title\">VDH Actions<\/h3>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<ul>\n<li>Local health districts are coordinating with local governments and supporting public health needs, including staff deployments to warming centers and emergency operations centers in some localities.<\/li>\n<li>VDH issued a news release on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/public-relations-contacts\/2026-news-releases\/virginia-department-of-health-provides-tips-to-stay-warm-healthy-during-power-outage\/\">power outage safety<\/a>\u00a0to keep everyone healthy and safe during this storm.<\/li>\n<li>VDH staff has been deployed to the Virginia Emergency Operations Center to support response activities.<\/li>\n<li>Because some people in Virginia who rely on electricity-dependent durable medical equipment and devices or essential health care services to maintain their independence may be at increased risk during emergencies, VDH has partnered with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), to share data with our local health districts and public safety officials to \u00a0help them plan for and respond to the needs of residents in their communities.<\/li>\n<li>VDH partnered with the Virginia Hospital &amp; Healthcare Association (VHHA) and the four Regional Healthcare Coalitions to discuss considerations and recommendations related to transportation, infrastructure, supply chain, and personal safety.<\/li>\n<li>The Office of Emergency Medical Services has reached out to local EMS units to discuss preparedness for this event. EMS and fire crews are trained for this, plan for this, and take a lot of pride in getting to patients no matter what the conditions.<\/li>\n<li>The Office of Drinking Water has been in contact with all the waterworks in Virginia with preparation recommendations.<\/li>\n<li>VDH stands ready and available to assist with public health and safety needs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-17088-0-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-17088-0-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child\" data-index=\"9\" ><div class=\"incident-resources-box panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-17088-0-1-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h3 class=\"widget-title\">Resources<\/h3>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p><a href=\"https:\/\/511.vdot.virginia.gov\/\">VDOT 511<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/211virginia.org\/\">211 Virginia<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/poweroutage.us\/area\/state\/virginia\">Power Outages<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vaemergency.gov\/events\/20260121-winter-weather\">VDEM Winter Weather<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ready.gov\/winter-weather\">Ready.gov<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/winter-weather\/about\/?CDC_AAref_Val=https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/disasters\/winter\/index.html\">CDC Winter Weather<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-17088-0-1-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"10\" ><div class=\"incident-resources-box panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-17088-0-1-1\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h3 class=\"widget-title\">For More Information:<\/h3>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Text SNOW to 247-211<br \/>\n<\/strong>to receive resources and tips directly to your phone.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>VDH Call Center<\/strong><br \/>\n877-829-4682<br \/>\n(Option 2)<br \/>\nMonday\u2013Friday<br \/>\n(no holidays)<br \/>\n8 a.m. to 5 p.m.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/local-health-districts\/\">VDH Local Health Districts<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-17088-0-1-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"11\" ><div class=\"incident-resources-box panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-17088-0-1-2\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h3 class=\"widget-title\">News Releases<\/h3>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.governor.virginia.gov\/newsroom\/news-releases\/2026\/january-releases\/name-1111661-en.html\">Governor Abigail Spanberger Urges Virginians to Keep Safe From Carbon Monoxide Exposure as Emergency Room Visits Rise<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/public-relations-contacts\/2026-news-releases\/virginia-department-of-health-provides-tips-to-stay-warm-healthy-during-power-outage\/\">Virginia Department of Health Provides Tips to Stay Warm, Healthy During Power Outage<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a title=\"Governor Spanberger Declares State of Emergency in Advance of Winter Weather Expected This Weekend\" href=\"https:\/\/www.governor.virginia.gov\/newsroom\/news-releases\/2026\/january-releases\/name-1111570-en.html\">Governor Spanberger Declares State of Emergency in Advance of Winter Weather Expected This Weekend<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a title=\"Attorney General Jones Announces Price Gouging Protections In Effect Ahead of Anticipated Winter Weather\" href=\"https:\/\/www.oag.state.va.us\/media-center\/news-releases\/2953-attorney-general-jones-announces-price-gouging-protections-in-effect-ahead-of-anticipated-winter-weather\">Attorney General Jones Announces Price Gouging Protections In Effect Ahead of Anticipated Winter Weather<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-17088-0-1-3\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-last-child\" data-index=\"12\" ><div class=\"incident-resources-box panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-17088-0-1-3\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h3 class=\"widget-title\">News Conferences<\/h3>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=odYu7BvmB_0\">Governor Spanberger Updates Virginians on Statewide Storm Response (January 26)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=LKxP3OuIu94\">Governor Spanberger's News Conference Ahead of Weekend's Winter Storm Across Virginia (Jan. 24)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=pSMUlt6Wg_8\">Governor Spanberger's News Conference on State Response to Expected Winter Weather (Jan. 22)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Winter Preparedness\u00a0\u2666 Cold Weather Safety \u2666 Power Outage Boil Water Advisory\u00a0\u2666 VDH Actions On January 22, Governor Spanberger issued Executive Order 11\u00a0declaring a state of emergency in advance of the impending winter weather that impacted most of the Commonwealth beginning Saturday, January 24 and lasting through Monday, January 26. A second storm\u00a0 impacted areas mainly [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":444,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"tags":[],"class_list":["post-17088","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>January 2026 Winter Storm Response - Newsroom<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/winterstormjan2026\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"January 2026 Winter Storm Response - Newsroom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Winter Preparedness\u00a0\u2666 Cold Weather Safety \u2666 Power Outage Boil Water Advisory\u00a0\u2666 VDH Actions On January 22, Governor Spanberger issued Executive Order 11\u00a0declaring a state of emergency in advance of the impending winter weather that impacted most of the Commonwealth beginning Saturday, January 24 and lasting through Monday, January 26. 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