Winter storm tips from local authorities and emergency personnel:

• Familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify winter weather.

• Include adequate clothing and blankets in your Ready kit to keep you warm.

• Allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing.

• Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to uninsulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.

• Keep an extra Ready kit in the trunk of your car. In addition to the basic essentials, consider adding an ice scraper, extra blanket, sand for traction and jumper cables.

• Make a ready kit for your home and car. Have enough supplies on hand for at least 72 hours. In addition to the basics, make sure your car's kit includes an ice scraper, extra blanket, sand for traction and jumper cables.

• Plan for power outages: Charge mobile phones and other portable electronics. Gather extra clothing and blankets.

• Stay informed about the forecast for your area as this storm develops and moves across the region.

• If you have a wood burning fireplace, consider storing wood to keep you warm if winter weather knocks out your heat. Also, make sure you have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year.

• Winter storms are often accompanied by power outages. Always exercise caution when using alternative light and heating sources.

• Use flashlights during power outages instead of candles to prevent the risk of fire, and have plenty of extra batteries on-hand.

• Never bring portable generators, camp stoves and grills into your home; they should only be used outside. Keep them at least 10 feet away from your home's windows, doors and vents to prevent deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.

• People who depend on electricity to operate medical equipment should have alternate arrangements in place in case power is out for an extended period of time.

• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed of winter weather watches and warnings.

• Also monitor local radio, television and other media outlets.

• Please only use 9-1-1 for emergencies.

• Keep in mind that during a severe winter storm it could be hours, or even days, before emergency personnel are able to reach you.