President Shelly urges citizens to be prepared for winter weather

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. - Navajo President Ben Shelly is advising Navajo Nation residents to prepare for winter weather.

"As Dine, we are a self-sufficient people and our grandparents have long prepared for winter. But, we should always remind ourselves to be prepared for any weather event," said President Shelly. "Please ensure your grandparents, relatives and children are prepared for any winter conditions."

Although, a recent winter storm has left portions of Eastern Agency covered with snow, President Shelly wants to remind Navajo Nation residents that all of the Navajo Nation is susceptible to winter weather including snow, freezing temperatures and muddy roads.

Here is a list of some recommendations for winter weather preparedness -

• Stay in tune. Keep on top of weather forecasts through television, radio and the Internet. Sign up for weather text alerts.

• Prepare your home. Ensure that your home is insulated. Have enough firewood and non-perishable food items for at least three days. Keep furniture away from heaters and stoves. Let faucets drip to help keep pipes from freezing. Have battery-powered flashlights and radios in the event of power outages.

• Prepare your car. Have a shovel, ax, and a jack available in the event of becoming stuck in winter weather road conditions. Ensure you have warm clothing and blankets packed in your car. Keep matches and firewood in the car. Ensure you have the right mix of antifreeze for your car. Inspect tires for wear.

• Prepare your livestock. Ensure they have enough hay and feed to last a few days. Pen the animals together for warmth. Ensure they have water to drink.

• Communicate. Let people know where you are during the time of a winter storm. Keep a written list of important numbers handy in the home and car.

"Following these few simple steps can help us get through another winter safely," President Shelly said.