South Charlotte Today

City of Charlotte issued the following announcement on Jan. 14.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management Office urges everyone in the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County to prepare themselves and their family for the impacts of Winter Storm Izzy. The forecast indicates that there will be significant precipitation impacting the Charlotte/Mecklenburg area, beginning in the evening on Saturday, Jan. 15. Now is the time to prepare yourself and your family.

Before Winter Weather

• Ensure you have enough food, water, medications and other essentials for your family and pets for at least 72 hours.
• Have emergency supplies in your home. This includes flashlights, batteries, battery operated radio, medical supplies, nonperishable foods and a fully charged cell phone.
• Gather supplies before winter weather begins - travel may be difficult during and immediately following winter weather.
• For a list of suggested emergency supplies, visit www.ready.gov/kit.
• Talk with your family about where to go and how to contact each other if you lose power.
• Bring outdoor pets inside. If unable to bring pets inside, ensure they have appropriate shelter from the weather and access to fresh water that is not frozen.
• Straw is the best bedding to keep outdoor pets dry and warm – free straw can be picked up at Animal Care and Control at 8315 Byrum Drive, Charlotte, NC 28217 in the self-serve trailer located in the front parking lot.

During Winter Weather

Home Safety

• Do NOT use a generator indoors. Keep generators at least 20 feet away from your home and away from vents, windows and doors.
• Never use a charcoal grill or camping stove indoors.
• Don't use alternative heating methods such as space heaters in an unattended room or while you're sleeping.
• If clearing debris, do not use power tools unless you are fully trained on proper safety procedures.

On the Road

• Only drive during a winter storm if it is necessary. It is important to keep roads clear for first responders and essential workers.
• Keep an emergency kit and blankets in your car.
• Slow down and leave space between you and other vehicles.
• If you start to slide, do NOT panic.
• Call 9-1-1 for emergencies and call 3-1-1 to report downed trees and power lines.
• CATS will operate normal weekend service on bus, light rail, and streetcar. Any weather-related service impacts will be announced as needed. Riders can call CATS Customer Service at 704.336.7433 (RIDE) for the most up-to-date information.

Stay Informed

• Stay tuned to local new channels and the National Weather Service for updates.
• Subscribe to CharMeck Alerts – visit CharMeck Alerts Sign up.
• Monitor Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
• Check the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County websites for service impact updates.

This information is also available in other languages on the winter weather tips page.  

For more information on how to prepare and stay safe during a winter storm visit www.ready.gov/winter-weather.

Original source can be found here.