NEW YORK. New York City officials are asking residents in Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island to prepare now for severe winter weather expected over the next week. Very cold temperatures, snow, and possible power outages could affect many neighborhoods.
Officials say the cold may be dangerous, especially for seniors, children, and people living in older buildings. Everyone is urged not to wait and to get ready as soon as possible.
Get your home ready!
Residents are strongly encouraged to check supplies now. Make sure you have enough food, drinking water, and medicine for up to seven days. Plan for one gallon of water per person per day.
Choose food that is easy and fast to prepare, such as instant noodles, canned food, dry snacks, and ready-to-heat meals. If you take prescription medicine, refill it early. Prepare flashlights, extra batteries, portable phone chargers, and backup cooking tools in case the power goes out.
Always check your Pipes!
In many NYC apartments and older buildings, pipes can freeze quickly. Let faucets drip a little and open cabinet doors under sinks so warm air can reach the pipes. Do not turn off your heat, even if you leave your home.
Use Heating Safely!
Officials are reminding residents to heat their homes the safe way.
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Place space heaters on flat floors and keep them at least three feet away from anything that can burn. Plug them directly into wall outlets—never use extension cords.
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Do not use gas stoves, ovens, or kerosene heaters to warm your home. These are illegal or very dangerous in NYC apartments.
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Generators must stay outside only, at least 20 feet away from windows and doors. Never use them indoors or in garages.
Watch for Carbon Monoxide!
Check that carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are working and have fresh batteries. After snowfall, clear snow from car tailpipes and from outside building vents to prevent deadly gas buildup.