Winter Weather Preparedness Week

Preparation Guide From Vance County Emergency Management

Raleigh, N.C. – Governor Pat McCrory has declared November 29 through December 5 as Winter Weather Preparedness Week and is urging North Carolinians to update their emergency supplies kits and review emergency plans.

“During the past two years we’ve seen several statewide winter storms with significant snow and ice accumulations,” said Governor McCrory. “This winter the National Weather Service is predicting above-normal amounts of precipitation. Regardless if that comes as rain, ice or snow, it is important to prepare now for winter weather. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so planning ahead can help your family stay safe this winter.”

North Carolina’s Piedmont region averages six to 12 winter events annually with measurable snow, sleet, freezing rain or cold rain. The coastal regions typically experience less than four events, while the mountains can see 12 or more winter events annually. North Carolina’s proximity to the Appalachian Mountains, Atlantic Ocean, Gulf Stream and Gulf of Mexico means it can experience a variety of winter weather patterns that provide a mixed bag of precipitation.

“North Carolina winters are often unpredictable with combinations of the potential for snow, sleet, ice and freezing rain,” said Public Safety Secretary Frank L. Perry. “The past few years have reminded us that southern winters are not all mild. Knowing what to do, having what you need and staying informed can help you stay safe this winter.”

Nick Petro, warning coordination meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Raleigh, said this year’s winter outlook features an elevated chance for above-normal amount of precipitation. “A strong El Nino, a warming of the tropical eastern Pacific Ocean and overlying atmosphere, is likely to impact North Carolina this winter. Historically, a strong El Nino brings above-normal precipitation (usually rain) to the Carolinas in the months of December through February. That rainfall could easily turn into snow if the temperatures do not climb high enough,” Petro explained.

Petro advised all residents to monitor changing weather conditions by listening carefully to their National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio, local radio and television stations for storm watches or warnings. When winter weather warnings are issued, the public should be prepared for possible power outages or roads made impassable by snow or ice.

North Carolina Emergency Management officials urges people to:

  • Keep alternative heating sources prepared. If you have a fireplace, store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood. Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure your family knows how to use them.
  • Properly vent kerosene heaters and keep any electric generators OUTSIDE and away from any open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Also, do not burn charcoal indoors. Carbon monoxide poisoning can result from charcoal fumes indoors.
  • Keep fresh batteries on hand to use with flashlights and weather radios.
  • Always keep at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food in your home.
  • Wear multiple layers of thin clothing instead of a single layer of thick clothing to stay warm. You will be warmer and, as the temperature changes, you can easily remove layers to remain comfortable.
  • Store an emergency kit in your vehicle. Include blankets, a battery-powered radio with extra batteries, a first aid kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, battery booster cables and flares, a tire repair kit and pump, a road map, a sack of cat litter (for tire traction), a tow rope, bottled water and non-perishable high-energy foods such as granola bars, extra clothing to keep dry, and a windshield scraper and brush.

State Emergency Management Director Mike Sprayberry warned that most deaths attributed to winter storms result from indirect dangers such as traffic accidents, falling trees, downed power lines, house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning resulting from improper use of space heaters, grills and stoves.

“People need to remember that driving on ice- or snow-covered roads is not the same as any other day,” Sprayberry added. “Roads are extremely slick. You need to reduce your speed and leave plenty of room between you and other vehicles.”

North Carolina emergency officials remind residents that if conditions worsen and you can no longer drive safely, then pull off the highway, stay calm and remain in your vehicle. Do not set out on foot unless you can see a building close by where you know you can take shelter.

The Department of Public Safety and the National Weather Service work together to give the public the most up-to-date and accurate weather and safety information to help residents take the proper measures to protect themselves, their neighbors and loved ones from the effects of dangerous winter storms.

For more information on how to prepare for winter storms, download the free ReadyNC app, which provides real-time information on traffic and weather conditions plus open shelters and items needed in an emergency supplies kit, or visit www.readync.org.

(Information Provided to WIZS by Press Release)

News 11/30/15

Home and Garden Show 11/24/15

Vance County Manager Search

There is not a lot of new news in the search for a new Vance County Manager.

The Interim County Manager, Robert Murphy,  indicated he was not a candidate for the permanent position in an email to WIZS News.

He said, “The commissioners’ commitment to the applicants to keep their applications confidential prevents our answering some of your questions, but I can tell you that the commissioners are continuing the search, and that they are confident that they will ultimately hire a highly qualified manager.”

Early in September, the following press release was issued:

“The Vance County Board of Commissioners will continue the search for a county manager. The board recognizes the importance of finding someone with the appropriate experience and skills to fill this very important position, and we are committed to taking the time needed to make sure the right person is selected. Vance County government has a long tradition of superior professional management, and we want to make sure that tradition continues undiminished. The position has been advertised in state and national professional publications, and the board has interviewed a number of candidates over the past several months. Mr. Robert Murphy, a retired North Carolina county manager, has been serving as interim county manager since February and has agreed to stay on until a new manager is selected. We are fortunate to have a very professional, dedicated county staff to work with Mr. Murphy. Our citizens can be assured that county operations and services will continue on unaffected by the transition in managers.”
Archie Taylor — Chairman, Board of Commissioners

Vance Co. Schools Transportation

The Vance County Schools’ Transportation Department earned a rating of 28.76 on its annual state inspection for school bus safety.

The state inspection was held on November 3 and thoroughly examines 10 percent of the school system’s bus fleet, with the focus on getting the lowest score possible. The average rating statewide for this year is projected at about 55, meaning the local inspection results were more than 25 points better than the state average.VCS Transportation Dept Nov 2015

The Transportation Department also received an outstanding score on its annual TIMS audit, which examines the efficiency of school bus routes. The department earned a grade of 98.4 on the November 2 audit. The state requires that a district score 90 or above for a successful audit.

News 11/25/15

News 11/24/15

Vance-Granville Community Band to present free holiday concert on Dec. 3

The Vance-Granville Community Band will perform its eighth annual Christmas Concert, entitled “Making Spirits Bright,” on Thursday, Dec. 3, at 7 p.m. in the Civic Center on VGCC’s Main Campus in Vance County. Admission is free and the public is invited.

The band has prepared a program featuring a variety of holiday-themed favorites, including “All I Want for Christmas is You,” “A Holst Christmas,” a march called “Christmas Joy,” “The Bells of Saint Mary,” “Twas the Night Before Christmas,” “Angels We Have Heard on High,” a sing-a-long of popular Christmas songs, and “May the Good Lord Keep and Bless You.”

The concert will also feature students in the VGCC Music Scholars program: Shontiara Williams of Oxford (on vocals and piano), Kaleb Williamson of Bullock (guitar), Tiffany Barnes of Henderson (vocals) and Charles Keith of Raleigh (bass).

VGCC music instructor Ivory Brock is the band’s primary conductor. Also conducting for a portion of the concert will be Brian Miller, the recently-retired band director at Louisburg High School.

First formed in 2008, the all-volunteer Community Band has included VGCC students, local high school students, educators, and interested citizens from all four counties of the college’s service area (Vance, Granville, Warren and Franklin) and beyond. For more information, call Ivory Brock at (252) 738-3222.

VGCC Vanguards lose three, look to bounce back in Vanguard Night rivalry game

The Vance-Granville Community College Vanguards men’s basketball team came up short in three recent games, all by margins of 10 or fewer points.

Traveling to Laurinburg to take on the St. Andrews University JV squad on Nov. 16, the Vanguards lost 76-71. Raekwon Hall of Raleigh led VGCC in scoring, putting up 27 points along with 4 rebounds. Ty’Quon Reid of Durham had an impressive performance, as well, with 22 points, 4 assists, 2 steals and 2 rebounds. With 13 points, Alcyone Moore of Charlotte was the only other Vanguard scoring in double figures.

VGCC returned home to face a conference opponent, the Patriots from Patrick Henry Community College, on Nov. 18. Despite making a strong comeback in the second half, VGCC fell 68-64 to PHCC, a team that has had only one loss this season. This time, Chris Pernell of Raleigh was the top scorer for the Vanguards, with 23 points. Reid had 18 points, while Hall contributed 13 points. Donal Gooch of Raleigh had the most rebounds (5), steals (4) and blocks (3).

Back on the road, the Vanguards suffered a non-conference loss to Central Carolina Community College, 83-73, on Nov. 22. The game was played at the “Region X Blast-Off” tournament at Sandhills Community College. Hall again led the Vanguards with 27 points, while also making 5 steals, 3 assists and 3 rebounds. Reid put 13 points on the board and contributed 5 assists. Gooch led in rebounding, with 6, and scored 10 points. After being sidelined by an injury, Tyrek Beverly of Oxford made his first appearance of the season for VGCC, putting up 8 points.

After the 2-5 Vanguards travel to play the reigning national champions, Richard Bland College, on Nov. 24, they will come home to play nationally-ranked Louisburg College on Wednesday, Dec. 2, at 6:30 p.m. The annual rivalry game known as “Vanguard Night” will take place at Aycock Recreation Center (307 Carey Chapel Road) in Henderson, and admission is free. Vanguard Night festivities will include a performance from VGCC’s “Vanguard Spirit” Pep Squad, a DJ and prize drawings.

Winter Weather Preparation

Winter Weather Safety

Winter Weather Safety – Spanish

Carbon Monoxide Safety

Pet Safety

Winter Driving Tips

 

Vance County Emergency Operations Urges Residents to Take Steps to Prepare for Winter Weather

HENDERSON – As part of Winter Weather Awareness Week, November 29 through December 5, Vance County Emergency Operations Director Brian K. Short urges residents to update their emergency plans and to stock their emergency supply kits.

Vance County, like much of North Carolina, has encountered unpredictable winter weather during recent years.

Just this year, North Carolina dealt with back-to-back snow and ice storms that downed trees and power lines, closed schools, and caused numerous traffic accidents. Our state also has seen heavy winter rains, flooding and even tornadoes. Earlier this year in Vance County there were several winter weather related incidents that caused traffic problems, traffic accidents, property damage, closed schools and forced County offices and some businesses to close. Let us also not forget in years past a 100 year snow storm event as well as a 50 year ice storm event that left virtually all of Vance County without power for well over a week in some places.

With the National Weather Service predicting an above-normal chance of precipitation – either rain, snow or ice – Vance County Emergency Operations officials want residents to plan now for winter weather conditions.

“Winter storms are actually very deceptive as they can create conditions that lead to dangerous and deadly situations,” said Brian K. Short, Vance County Emergency Operations Director. “Most deaths are unrelated to the actual storm. Instead, people die in traffic accidents on icy roads or of hypothermia from lengthy exposure to cold.” Short added that deaths and injuries related to winter weather can be prevented. “I urge residents to take four simple steps to get ready for an emergency,” he said. “Have a plan, practice it, have an emergency supplies kit and stay informed about weather and traffic conditions to help keep your family safe this winter.”

Four Simple Steps

The first step is to write a plan, which should be a thought-out list of whom to call, where to meet and any special considerations that may need to be addressed. Once you have a plan in place, be sure to discuss it with your family and then practice it! “A plan is worthless unless you practice it,” Short said. “What’s the point of writing down how you will contact each other if you do not in fact test it out to see if it works? As with any activity, practice makes perfect and in this case, practice can save lives.”

Once a plan is in place, build an emergency supplies kit for your home and your car. Besides the standard items – non-perishable food and water for each person for three to seven days, medications, and important papers – you should also include rock salt, sand, snow shovels, extra warm clothes and blankets. Ensure a flash light, battery operated radio, extra batteries, and a first-aid kit are on hand.

Finally, pay attention to the weather forecast and stay informed about potential storms. All residents need to monitor changing weather conditions by listening carefully to their National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio, local radio and television stations for storm watches or warnings. Real time traffic and weather conditions can also be found on the state’s free ReadyNC mobile app.

Winter Preparations

During the cold winter months, carbon monoxide poisoning can occur from improper heating. The colorless, odorless carbon monoxide gas can be deadly and is produced from fuel-burning appliances, generators and heaters. Without proper ventilation, carbon monoxide fumes can accumulate causing headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness. While preparing for winter weather, remember to always keep charcoal grills and portable camping equipment outdoors. Installing a carbon monoxide alarm on each level of your home, near sleeping areas is recommended. Also, restock your camping supplies and check here to find new upgraded gear. Remember to check the batteries regularly.

To prepare your home for winter weather, check in and around your home and add insulation to walls and attics if it is needed. Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows and insulate water pipes to keep them from freezing. Also, keep an adequate supply of heating fuel on hand. Remember to keep generators away from the home. Never run a generator in the garage or other enclosed area.

Drive Safely, Use Caution

Snow and ice can cause hazardous driving conditions which lead to massive traffic delays. “Keep in mind that road conditions can quickly change. When driving in winter weather, remember to reduce your speed and leave plenty of room between you and other vehicles.” Brian Short said.

Other winter driving tips to remember are:

  • Approach bridges and overpasses with caution since they often become icy prior to roadways. Do not push your breaks while on a bridge.
  • If you begin to slide, take your foot off the gas and turn the steering wheel in the direction of the slide. Do not push the brakes.
  • If you need to pull off the highway, set your directional lights to “flashing.”
  • Do not go out on foot unless you see a building nearby to take shelter.
  • If running the engine to keep warm, crack the window open to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Never let everyone in the car sleep at once. One person should stay awake to watch for rescue crews. Tie a colored cloth to the antenna or door to make yourself visible.

“Weather conditions can rapidly deteriorate, so it’s important to keep calm and think clearly about what to do,” Short said. For more information about how you and your family can prepare for adverse weather, visit the ReadyNC.org, Website.
Short also reminds residents to practice the following winter safety tips:

  • Keep alternative heating sources prepared. If you have a fireplace, store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood. Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure your family knows how to use them.
  • Properly vent kerosene heaters and keep any electric generators OUTSIDE and away from any open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Also, do not burn charcoal indoors. Carbon monoxide poisoning can result from charcoal fumes indoors.
  • Keep fresh batteries on hand to use with flashlights and weather radios.
  • Always keep at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food in your home.
  • Wear multiple layers of thin clothing instead of a single layer of thick clothing to stay warm. You will be warmer and, as the temperature changes, you can easily remove layers to remain comfortable.

News Release Provided by Brian Short, Director of Emergency Management
For Release: IMMEDIATE   Contact: Brian K. Short
Date: November 23, 2015     Phone: 252-438-8264