Safety Steps to Follow if in the Path of California’s Atmospheric Rivers

Hundreds of trained American Red Cross disaster workers are working around the clock to help people in California impacted by the recent severe weather. Here are some important safety steps people should follow if they are in the path of these storms:

SNOW AND ROOFS: According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), preventing falls when clearing your roof of snow is key, that a fall from a roof can often be fatal. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and OSHA offer these safety steps for removing snow from a roof:

FLOODING SAFETY

WINTER WEATHER SAFETY

STAY SAFE OUTSIDE Wear layered clothing, mittens or gloves, and a hat.

TRAVEL SAFETY Avoid travel if you can. If you must go out during a winter storm, use public transportation if possible. About 70 percent of winter deaths related to ice and snow occur in automobiles.

If you are stranded, stay in the vehicle and wait for help. Do not leave the vehicle to search for assistance unless help is visible within 100 yards.

POWER OUTAGE SAFETY

LANDSLIDE SAFETY

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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