November 1, 2007, Canton, MI - Governor Granholm has designated November 4-10, 2007 as Winter Hazards Awareness Week.  Heavy snow, extreme cold, ice and wind routinely affect Michigan during winter and pose dangers to life and property. According to the Michigan Department of Community Health, 37 people in Michigan died due the exposure to the cold in 2006.

Michigan winters can be severe, so preparedness, awareness and common sense are always important.  Canton’s Emergency Management Office encourages residents to learn of the dangers associated with cold, snow and ice, as well as threats posed by the use of heat sources such as wood burning stoves, fireplaces and space heaters.

To prepare for a winter storm at home, the Michigan Committee for Severe Weather Awareness recommends the following:

• Keep handy a battery-powered flashlight, NOAA weather radio and portable radio, extra food(canned or dried food is best), can opener, and bottled water (at least 3 gallons per person).

• Make sure each member of the household has a warm coat, gloves, hat and water-resistant boots.

• Ensure that extra blankets and heavy clothes are available.

• Keep on hand items for infant, elderly or disabled family members.

• Be aware of potential fire and carbon monoxide hazards if you plan to use an emergency heating source such as a fireplace, wood stove or space heater.

For more information on how to prepare for severe weather, contact Canton’s Emergency Management Office at 734-394-5357, or visit www.cantonpublicsafety.org.  You can also visit the Michigan Committee for Severe Weather Awareness website at www.mcswa.org. 

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