ST. PAUL — Significant snowfall is forecast for Monday in southern Minnesota. As much as six inches of snow may occur along the I-90 corridor. Along with the snow, colder temperatures are expected for much of the state.
The predicted snow and cold comes at the start of Winter Hazard Awareness Week, November 10-14.
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) is working with the National Weather Service and state agency partners to share preparedness messaging throughout the week.
“Take the time to gather supplies for your vehicle and home before the really heavy snow and bitter cold arrives.” HSEM Director Kris Eide said. “It’s easy to wait until we have a foot of snow and then wonder where your vehicle emergency kit is. This year plan ahead and have peace of mind.”
HSEM suggests everyone take the time to:
- Create a winter survival kit to keep in all vehicles. It should include a blanket, hat, boots, gloves, flashlight, snacks, matches, a tin cup to melt snow for drinking water and a bright ribbon to hang from a vehicle’s window to alert authorities help is needed.
- Change the batteries in carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
- Understand the difference between a winter weather warning, watch and advisory.
- Stock up on sand or anti-icing product for sidewalks and driveways.
- Help elderly parents with their winter survival needs.
In 2013, there were 21,384 crashes on snow- and ice-covered roads in Minnesota. Those crashes killed 49 people and injured 6,103.
“Take your time and plan ahead during poor winter driving conditions,” said State Patrol Lt. Eric Roeske. “If the National Weather Service advises against travel, heed those warnings. One poor decision can affect many lives.”
Social media preparedness messaging will appear on DPS Facebook and Twitter accounts using the hashtag #WinterReady.
The HSEM website at hsem.dps.mn.gov contains information for each day of
Winter Hazard Awareness Week.
About the Minnesota Department Public Safety
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) comprises 11 divisions where 2,100 employees operate programs in the areas of law enforcement, crime victim assistance, traffic safety, alcohol and gambling, emergency communications, fire safety, pipeline safety, driver licensing, vehicle registration and emergency management. DPS activity is anchored by three core principles: education, enforcement and prevention.
About the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management
Homeland Security and Emergency Management helps Minnesotans prevent, prepare for, mitigate, respond to and recover from emergencies and disasters.
Recent HSEM Activity and Statistics
- The Minnesota School Safety Center staff travels the state making presentations and providing training. In FY 2014, those travels reached well over 500 individuals and 70 school districts and public safety agencies.
- The HSEM exercise program supports emergency management personnel in planning, conducting and evaluating exercises. In FY 2014, HSEM assisted with 214 exercises.
- HSEM awards Homeland Security grants to local jurisdictions to prevent terrorism and assist with emergency preparedness. In FY 2014, HSEM awarded 196 grants totaling $63 million.
