Tag: emergency kit

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Offer Safety Tips to Stay Warm During Extreme Cold

January 29, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Offer Safety Tips to Stay Warm During Extreme Cold

WISE, Va. – As southwest Virginia continues to see dangerously cold temperatures, hypothermia and frostbite are real concerns. The Virginia Department of Health’s Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge you to take steps to keep you and your family warm, dry, and healthy throughout this winter season.

“Even if you’re a cautious winter driver, it’s helpful to prepare for any scenario, from a flat tire to sliding off the road,” said Reisa Sloce, Director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Emergency preparedness is even more critical during the winter, with freezing temperatures that can become dangerous if you’re stranded for too long.”

Hypothermia occurs most commonly at very cold environmental temperatures but can occur even at cool temperatures (above 40°F) if a person becomes chilled from rain, sweat, or submersion in cold water. Signs to look out for include shivering, exhaustion or fatigue, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and/or drowsiness. In babies look for bright red, cold skin and very low energy.

Frostbite is a type of injury caused by freezing. If you notice redness or pain in any skin area, get out of the cold. The skin will feel numb, unusually firm or waxy, and can also appear white or grayish yellow. If you have frostbite, you may not know until someone else points it out because the frozen parts of your body are numb.

The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts encourage you to take these steps to prevent hypothermia, frostbite and other potential injuries.

Staying Warm

  • Stay indoors and limit your exposure to the cold.
  • Bring your pets indoors and ensure they have water.
  • Eating healthy meals will help to keep your body temperature warm.
  • Stay hydrated even during the cold to prevent hypothermia. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. They cause your body to lose heat faster. Drink warm beverages or broth.
  • Keep extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm winter coats on hand for use in cold rooms.
  • Charge all your devices (medical equipment, phone, computer, tablet, radio, etc.).
  • Check on neighbors, friends, and family.
  • For a list of warming centers in your area, call 2-1-1 or visit org/

If You Go Outside

If you must go outside, please take these precautions:

  • Dress warmly and in layers. Make sure you cover your head, fingers and toes to prevent frostbite.
  • Be aware of the wind chill factor.
  • Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps.
  • Avoid getting wet. If you get wet, change out of wet clothes as soon as possible to prevent hypothermia.
  • Take frequent breaks if shoveling snow or working outdoors.

If You Must Drive

  • Stay at home and avoid travel. If you must travel, check the road conditions and your route first.
  • Allow extra time and follow these tips from the Virginia Department of Transportation.
  • If you must travel, let someone know your destination and when you expect to arrive. Ask them to notify authorities if you are late.
  • Always carry extra warm clothing and blankets with Don’t rely on a car to provide enough heat.
  • Have a winter emergency kit inside your car that includes:
    • Ice scraper
    • Warmth items such as blankets, extra gloves, etc.
    • Portable shovel
    • Flashlight
    • Extra batteries and a cell phone charger
    • A first aid kit
    • Jumper cables
    • A small container of sand or kitty litter for traction
    • Nonperishable food and water
    • Items for handling a flat tire

If you have chronic health conditions, please reach out to your healthcare provider to work together and ensure you have a care plan in place. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, home-use medical devices, and vitamins. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.

If you notice signs of frostbite and hypothermia, seek medical attention immediately.

If you have questions, contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at (276) 889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District at (276) 328-8000.

Central Shenandoah Health District Urges the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm

Posted on by lindascarborough

January 21, 2026
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Central Shenandoah Health District Urges the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm

STAUNTON, Va. – The Shenandoah Valley is expected to be impacted by severe winter weather, to include snow and ice this coming weekend. The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) urges you to prepare now to keep you and your family safe, warm, and healthy during this storm.

“Being prepared for winter weather makes all the difference when a storm hits,” says Xavier Crockett, Health Director for CSHD. “We’re encouraging everyone to have emergency supplies at home, and to stay off the roads if they can, especially in our more rural counties.”

Before the Storm

Before the storm arrives, the Central Shenandoah Health District urges you to take these steps:

  • Make sure you have an emergency supply kit on hand and keep an emergency kit for your car.
  • Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, home-use medical devices, and vitamins. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
  • Check your smoke and carbon monoxide
  • Replenish fuel for your car and heating sources.
  • Weatherproof your home by insulating exposed pipes and caulking and weather strip doors/windows.
  • Make sure you understand the warnings, watches and advisories and have multiple ways to receive alerts.

During/After the Storm

  • Bring your pets indoors and ensure they have water.
  • Stay indoors and limit your exposure to the cold.
  • Properly ventilate emergency heat sources.
  • Keep generators outside at least 20 feet from your home.
  • Check on neighbors and family.

If you must go outside, take the following precautions to stay safe and prevent frostbite and hypothermia:

  • Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps.
  • Dress warmly and in layers. Make sure you cover your head, fingers and toes.
  • Avoid getting wet and change out of wet clothes as soon as possible.
  • Stay hydrated. Drink warm beverages.
  • Take frequent breaks if shoveling snow or working outdoors.
  • Stay off the roads. If you must travel, check the road conditions and your route first. Allow extra time and follow these tips from the Virginia Department of Transportation.

The Central Shenandoah Health District wants you to stay warm, safe, and healthy! For more information, contact the Central Shenandoah Health District at cshdinfo@vdh.virginia.gov.

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Urges the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm

January 22, 2026
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Urges the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm

RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond City and Henrico County are expected to be impacted by severe winter weather, including snow, ice, and extremely cold temperatures. Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) urge you to prepare now to keep yourself, your family and your pets safe, warm and healthy during this storm.

“We have all experienced how disruptive winter weather can be to our daily lives,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “Take time now to make sure your home, family, friends, and neighbors are ready for this winter storm. Prepare for the storm by organizing your emergency kits and medicines, insulating your home, and staying up to date on weather reports. During the storm, stay indoors as much as possible, ventilate emergency heat sources and check on friends and family. Let’s take care of ourselves and each other as winter weather affects our communities.”

Before the Storm

  • Make sure you have an emergency supply kit on hand and keep an emergency kit for your car.
  • Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, home-use medical devices, and vitamins. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
  • Check your smoke and carbon monoxide
  • Replenish fuel for your car and heating sources.
  • Weatherproof your home by insulating exposed pipes and caulking and weather strip doors/windows.
  • Make sure you understand the warnings, watches and advisories and have multiple ways to receive alerts.
  • Write down the contact information and directions to your local Inclement Weather Shelter or warming center. Call 804-646-3111 or email homeless@rva.gov for more information.
    • City of Richmond Inclement Weather Shelter (IWS)
      1900 Chamberlayne Parkway
      Richmond, VA, 23222
      Open 5 p.m.-8 a.m.

      • The shelter may remain open after 8 a.m. when temperatures are less than or equal to 40°F, or when more than one inch of freezing rain or snow has fallen in 24-hours.
    • Richmond Public Library branches serve as warming spaces during normal operating hours.
    • Henrico County libraries and recreation centers are open to the public during normal operating hours.

During/After the Storm

  • Bring your pets indoors and ensure they have water.
  • Stay indoors and limit your exposure to the cold.
  • Properly ventilate emergency heat sources.
  • Keep generators outside at least 20 feet from your home.20
  • Check on neighbors and family.

If you must go outside, take the following precautions to stay safe and prevent frostbite and hypothermia:

  • Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps.
  • Dress warmly and in layers. Make sure you cover your head, fingers and toes.
  • Avoid getting wet and change out of wet clothes as soon as possible.
  • Stay hydrated. Drink warm beverages.
  • Take frequent breaks if shoveling snow or working outdoors.
  • Stay off the roads. If you must travel, check the road conditions and your route first. Allow extra time and follow these tips from the Virginia Department of Transportation.

RHHD wants you to stay safe, warm and healthy! Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook.

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Crater Health District Urges Residents to Be Prepared for the Unpredictable Impacts of Winter Weather

December 29, 2025

Media Contact: Tara Rose, Tara.Rose@vdh.virginia.gov

Crater Health District Urges Residents to Be Prepared
for the Unpredictable Impacts of Winter Weather
Stay Safe This Winter with These Tips

PETERSBURG, Va. – The Crater Health District reminds residents that winter weather can be dangerous and unpredictable. Snow, ice and freezing conditions can lead to unexpected injuries and accidents. These conditions can increase the risk of hazardous travel, power outages, and health impacts, especially for older adults, children, and people with chronic health problems.

“Winter weather can be unpredictable. Be ready before winter storms arrive,” said Crater District Health Director, Dr. Alton Hart, Jr. “We encourage every household to prepare emergency kits for your home and vehicles. Taking practical steps today can prevent emergencies tomorrow.”

By preparing ahead of time you can avoid emergencies, protect your health and keep your loved ones safe. Follow these tips to be better prepared for the cold weather season.

  • Have an emergency kit with supplies such flashlights, batteries, blankets, food, and water.
  • Winterize your home by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows.
  • Check batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors.
  • Prepare your vehicle with emergency supplies.
  • Use space heaters safely. Keep heat sources at least three feet away from drapes, furniture, bedding, or other flammable materials. Never cover your space heater.

Preparation before dangerous winter weather arrives is critical. The best time to prepare for severe winter weather is now, before temperatures drop significantly and staying safe and warm becomes a challenge. Take these precautions to lower your risk of illness.

  • Wear cold appropriate clothing like gloves, hats, scarves and snow boots.
  • Be aware of the wind chill factor.
  • Remove any wet clothing immediately.
  • Limit your time outdoors.

If you plan to travel, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) provides travel advisories on current road conditions and weather forecasts. Travelers can easily access weather information by dialing 511, 24 hours a day, seven days a week or via the website at 511.vdot.virginia.gov.

Learn more about staying safe this winter by contacting contact Crater Health District directly at 804-863-1652 or visit Crater Health District.

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Central Shenandoah Health District Urges Residents to Be Prepared for the Unpredictable Impacts of Winter Weather

December 12, 2025
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Central Shenandoah Health District Urges Residents to Be Prepared
for the Unpredictable Impacts of Winter Weather
Stay Safe This Winter with These Tips

STAUNTON, Va. – The Central Shenandoah Health District reminds residents that winter weather can be dangerous and unpredictable. Snow, ice, and freezing conditions can lead to unexpected injuries and accidents. These conditions can increase the risk of hazardous travel, power outages, and health impacts, especially for older adults, children, and people with chronic health problems.

“Being prepared is half the battle,” says Dr. Allison Baroco, Acting Health Director for CSHD. “We’ve already seen some snow this year, so this is a good reminder to prepare for the coming months. Good preparedness makes unexpected weather safer and easier for you and your family.”

By preparing ahead of time you can avoid emergencies, protect your health and keep your loved ones safe. Follow these tips to be better prepared for the cold weather season.

  • Have an emergency kit with supplies such flashlights, batteries, blankets, food, and water.
  • Winterize your home by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows.
  • Check batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors.
  • Prepare your vehicle with emergency supplies.
  • Use space heaters safely. Keep heat sources at least three feet away from drapes, furniture, bedding, or other flammable materials. Never cover your space heater.

Preparation before dangerous winter weather arrives is critical. The best time to prepare for severe winter weather is now, before temperatures drop significantly and staying safe and warm becomes a challenge. Take these precautions to lower your risk of illness.

  • Wear cold appropriate clothing like gloves, hats, scarves and snow boots.
  • Be aware of the wind chill factor.
  • Remove any wet clothing immediately.
  • Limit your time outdoors.

If you plan to travel, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) provides travel advisories on current road conditions and weather forecasts. Travelers can easily access weather information by dialing 511, 24 hours a day, seven days a week or via the website at 511.vdot.virginia.gov.

Learn more about staying safe this winter by visiting the Central Shenandoah Health District at https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/central-shenandoah/

RHHD Encourages Vaccinations and Emergency Preparedness

September 15, 2025

Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov

RHHD Encourages Vaccinations and Emergency Preparedness
September 16 is Get Ready Day

RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage you to make appointments for respiratory illness vaccinations and make a plan for emergencies. September is National Preparedness Month and Sept. 16 is Get Ready Day.

“Get Ready Day reminds us of the importance of preparing ourselves, our families, and our communities for infectious diseases, natural disasters, and other emergencies,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry. “Vaccines are the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from diseases like COVID-19 and flu. By getting your annual flu and COVID-19 vaccines this fall, you can make sure to be there for family gatherings and all of the activities taking place around Richmond and Henrico!”

Get ready for respiratory illnesses.

Make a vaccination appointment at a local pharmacy, your primary care provider, or an RHHD clinic. Visit rhhd.gov/connect-pc to locate primary care providers that accept private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare and patients without insurance.

Virginia Vaccines for Adults (VVFA) providers offer no-cost immunizations to adults who are uninsured or underinsured. Use rhhd.gov/vfa to search for a nearby provider. Virgina Vaccines for Children (VVFC) providers offer no-cost vaccinations to children (younger than 19 years of age) who are uninsured or underinsured; Medicaid-eligible or Medicaid- enrolled; and/or American Indian or Alaska Native. Use rhhd.gov/vfc to search for a nearby provider.

RHHD offers vaccination appointments at its Henrico East (804-652-3190), Henrico West (804-501-4522), and Cary Street (804-205-3500) clinics. Spanish bilingual staff are available at each location. Visit rhhd.gov/flu for more information.

Get ready for emergencies.

“Emergency preparedness starts with a few simple, cost-free steps,” says Ed Porner, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts emergency preparedness and response coordinator. “Talk to your family, gather important information, and find out what your friends and neighbors will need, especially those that might need a little extra help. The more prepared we are as a community, the better we will fare.”

Make sure your plan includes everyone! Consider supporting those in the community that might need your help, like an elderly neighbor or someone with a disability. Don’t forget to plan for your pets!

Ed Porner offers these tips to help your family stay prepared:

  • Prepare your family AND your household. Disasters can happen unexpectedly and without warning. Hurricanes and storms may give us some time to gather things together, but fires, floods, and other disasters could give us only seconds to get to safety. Gather important documents like birth certificates, citizenship papers, or backup medical prescriptions and place them in a secure location close to an exit, preferably in a fireproof box.
  • Talk openly with kids about preparedness. Talk with children often, honestly, and openly about the potential for emergencies while empowering them to take charge of their own preparedness. “Comfort items” for both kids and older adults should be an important part of an emergency kit – think a favorite toy or a keepsake that’s important to that person. Discussions should include procedures for reuniting if separated, trusted people in their lives that they can call, and how to access emergency services if they’re alone. Prepare with Pedro from Ready.gov is a fun resource that families can use to help kids think about preparedness.
  • Meet your neighbors. Planning with your community in mind can help counteract some of the ways way age, income, or disabilities impact someone’s readiness for emergency situations. Have conversations about the needs your neighbors might have and what type of assistance they might need in an emergency.
  • Practice your plan. Turn preparedness into a game like a treasure hunt for emergency kit items, or a car trip around the neighborhood highlighting meeting points of safe areas. Ready.gov has many more ideas.
  • Learn more about preparedness at gov or VDH Severe Weather Preparedness.

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook.

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Prepare Today to Protect Yourself and Your Family from Disaster

September 8, 2025

Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Prepare Today to Protect Yourself and Your Family from Disaster
Central Shenandoah Health District Supports National Preparedness Month

STAUNTON, Va. – It is important to plan ahead so you are ready before a disaster happens. September is National Preparedness Month, which is all about getting ready for emergencies. The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) wants you to make a plan, put together an emergency kit or “go bag,” and use easy, low-cost ideas to get ready.

“Emergencies don’t happen on a schedule, they don’t happen when it’s convenient, and they don’t tell you when they’re coming,” says Dr. Allison Baroco, Acting Health Director for CSHD. “Preparedness month is a great time for you to create an emergency plan for you and your family, so that when an emergency does happen, you’re not caught off guard.”

Talking with your family and friends about being prepared is the first step. Even though it can be hard to talk about disasters, planning ahead will help you and your community be ready. Here are some tips to get started:

  • Choose a time when everyone feels comfortable talking about emergency plans.
  • You can have more than one conversation, so everyone feels good about the plan.
  • Share what you have done to get ready and ask others what works for them.

All year the Central Shenandoah Health District partners with the community to help keep you safe. We plan, work together, teach, and act quickly to handle any health emergency, like disease outbreaks or other dangers.

Disasters can happen and have serious impacts, so talking about them now helps keep your community safe. For more information on how to get ready for different emergencies, visit www.ready.gov.

New River Health District Announces Emergency Preparedness Fair

April 8, 2025

Media Contact: Beverly Hill, 540-585-3298, Beverly.Hill@vdh.virginia.gov

New River Health District Announces Emergency Preparedness Fair
Focusing on Emergency Preparedness Skills and Community Resilience in Times of Disaster

FLOYD, Va. – The New River Health District is co-hosting a free Emergency Preparedness Fair Saturday, April 12, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Floyd Ecovillage, located at 718 Franklin Pike SE, in Floyd.

The community-focused event will offer education on how to be prepared for potential emergencies. Presentations will be conducted by local first responders and various community organizations. Live demonstrations will be ongoing throughout the day. Panel discussions will enable community members to learn vital information and ask questions related to emergency preparedness and response. Booths will feature free takeaways and will give the public the opportunity to meet local emergency professionals. Light refreshments will also be available.

“Being prepared is one of the best ways to prevent severe health impacts that result from disaster situations,” says Dr. Noelle Bissell. “If you haven’t already assembled an emergency kit for yourself, your family and pets, and do not have an emergency plan in place, this event will provide a meaningful opportunity to add this important layer of protection.”

It is important for individuals of all ages to know how to build an emergency kit and develop a family emergency plan, and to know what documents are essential to take during an evacuation. Pet owners should also know how to care for their companions during a disaster.  Learning these basic skills can be the difference between life and death.

The following agencies, businesses, and organizations will be providing educational resources during the event:

  • American Red Cross
  • Child Care Aware of Virginia
  • Citizens COOP
  • Floyd Community Development
  • Floyd County EMS Ambulances & Responders
  • Floyd County Sheriff’s Office
  • Floyd County Fire Department
  • Floyd Department of Social Services
  • Functional Medicine Health Coach
  • Living Light River Studio
  • Medical Reserve Corps, New River Health District
  • NRV Master Naturalist
  • Partnership for Floyd
  • Scout Troop 19
  • Virginia Cooperative Extension – Floyd
  • Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM)
  • Virginia Department of Health, New River Health District
  • Virginia Disaster Assistance Team (VDAT)
  • Women’s Resource Center NRV
  • 211 Virginia

For more information on this event, please visit: https://partnershipforfloyd.org/emergency-preparedness-fair-saturday-april-12-2025/