With potentially heavy snow predicted starting Saturday night (Jan. 24), it is essential to take precautions to stay safe before, during and after the storm.
Review the following tips from University Police, Facilities Management and other campus units.
Before the storm:
• Stock up on supplies.
The American Red Cross recommends having two weeks’ worth of essentials, including food, toiletries and medication. Have bottled water available, in case pipes freeze or water lines are cut.
• Brush up on terminology.
Forecasts use outlooks, watches and warnings to alert you of current and upcoming conditions.
• Prepare for potential power outages.
Have alternate heating and light sources available. Keep pop-top and other easy to open nonperishable foods around.
Before the storm hits, charge your phone, laptop, external batteries and any device you might need. Keep extra batteries easily accessible for battery-operated lighting sources.
Keep faucets dripping. Turn on faucets against exterior walls to help prevent pipes from freezing.
• Prepare your home.
Locate your home’s shut-off valves and breakers.
Ensure doors and windows are properly sealed.
Make sure gutters and downspouts are unobstructed.
Pre-treat stairs and sidewalks with ice melt.
During the storm:
• Stay inside: Keep safe and warm.
Do not attempt to travel as conditions can quickly become hazardous.
If you must travel, clear snow and ice from your car.
Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have plenty of tread. Take it slow and keep your hazard lights on. Have an emergency kit with you that includes extra warm clothing, a flashlight, glass scraper, blankets, extra food and water, a cell phone charger, traction aids, shovel and a first aid kit. Make sure your exhaust isn’t clogged and do not remote start a vehicle in an enclosed space — both of these scenarios can lead to deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.
• If you get stuck, don’t leave your vehicle.
Don’t overexert yourself trying to dislodge a car. Call for help.
• In the event of a power outage, use safe alternative heat sources to stay warm.
Many communities will set up warming shelters for those unable to stay safe at
home. Follow
food safety tips to avoid foodborne illness.
• Check on vulnerable neighbors.
It’s important to look after one another, especially when emergency services may be delayed or unavailable due to the weather.
After the storm:
• Stay warm and hydrated when shoveling snow.
Keep a safe posture and take frequent breaks.
• Stay aware.
Stay aware of branches, power lines or ice that may fall.
• Prepare for traveling.
Clear off all snow and ice from your vehicle and check for road condition information along your route.
• Be patient.
As much as you want to get back to normal, allow time for the roads and sidewalks
to be cleared, if possible.
Being prepared is the best way to stay safe during severe weather. In the event of an emergency, call 911. For safety concerns on campus, contact UPD at 304-293-3136 or via the LiveSafe app.
If you encounter any building or infrastructure issues on campus, call the Facilities Management Help Line at 304-293-4357.
A declaration of a weather emergency by the governor does not automatically close WVU campuses or offices. If officials decide to cancel or delay classes or close the University, students and employees will be informed through a variety of outlets including:
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Email
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UNEWS and students.wvu.edu
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ENews and enews.wvu.edu
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Social media channels, including WVU Safety and Wellness on Facebook, @wvusafety on X and @wvusafetyofficial on Instagram.
Find the latest weather updates from the National Weather Service.
Review additional winter weather preparedness information from the City of Morgantown.