Tag: LENOWISCO Health District

July 10, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, PIO, daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

LENOWISCO Health District WIC Program
to Host World Breastfeeding Week Celebration

GATE CITY, Va. – World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated annually during the first week of August. The LENOWISCO Health District’s Woman, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program will celebrate and promote breastfeeding by holding a community event at the Big Stone Gap Visitors Center, 306 Wood Ave., Big Stone Gap, Va., on Thursday, August 6 from 1-3 p.m. During this event, the public will be able to get valuable information and resources on breastfeeding, car seat safety, safe sleep practices, diaper assistance programs, the BabyCare and Resource Mother Program, as well as other support services. A breastfeeding peer counselor and an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) will also be available to address questions.

“Breastfeeding provides lifelong health benefits for both babies and mothers, supporting healthy growth, strengthening immune systems, and promoting maternal health. In our rural communities, supporting families from the very beginning is one of the most important investments we can make in the future health of our region,” said Reisa Sloce, Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts director. “During World Breastfeeding Week, we invite community members, families, healthcare providers, and supporters to join us as we celebrate breastfeeding, share resources, and recognize the vital role breastfeeding plays in building healthier communities. Together, we can create an environment where every family has the support they need to thrive.”

Breastfeeding saves lives and is a key intervention to promote health, survival and wellbeing of both mother and baby. In addition, breastfeeding provides good nutrition and food security in normal and emergency situations.

For more information about breastfeeding or the World Breastfeeding Week celebration, contact the LENOWISCO Health District WIC Office at 276-321-6569.

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Share Tips to Beat the Heat and Stay Safe

Posted on by lindascarborough

June 12, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Share Tips to Beat the Heat and Stay Safe

WISE, Va.– Summer heat can affect anyone, no matter your age. Older adults and children are most susceptible, but even healthy young adults are not protected from the dangers of extreme heat. Last summer, people in their 20s (18%) and 30s (17%) were the highest percentage of the more than 4,000 Virginians seeking health care for heat-related illnesses. The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts are reminding everyone to take hot weather seriously and to know how to stay safe when temperatures climb.

“As temperatures rise, it’s important for everyone to take heat safety seriously,” said Reisa Sloce, director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly and affect anyone, but older adults, young children, outdoor workers, and individuals with chronic health conditions are at greater risk. Staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, seeking air-conditioned spaces, and checking on family members and neighbors can help prevent serious illness. A little preparation and awareness can go a long way in keeping our communities safe and healthy throughout the summer.”

Heat can be dangerous for anyone, but some people face higher risk. Adults 65 and older, young children, pregnant women, and people with health conditions like heart disease have a harder time staying cool. Their bodies are less efficient at regulating body temperature and, and they may not be able to protect themselves.

The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to know your risk. The CDC’s HeatRisk tool allows you to track heat risk for the week by zip code.

When the risk is elevated, the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts suggests these tips:

  • Drink water throughout the day, not just when you are thirsty.
  • Avoid drinks with caffeine
  • Limit outdoor activities between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hottest time of day.
  • Take breaks. If you work outdoors find shade as often as possible.
  • Keep cool indoors with air conditioning and fans. Don’t have air conditioning? Visit a cooling center.

Even with good planning, you can still get sick from the heat. Knowing the signs heat stroke and heat exhaustion helps you act fast.

Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of water and salt, usually through excessive sweating. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms of heat exhaustion, move to a cooler place, loosen tight clothing and use cool wet clothes to help lower their body temperature:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness or tiredness
  • Irritability
  • Thirst
  • Heavy sweating
  • Muscle cramps
  • Fast or weak pulse
  • Body temperature 101° or higher

If you or a loved one experience any of these heat stroke symptoms, call 911 immediately:

  • Confusion, altered mental state, slurred speech
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • Hot, red, dry or damp skin
  • Very high body temperature
  • Seizures

Planning ahead and knowing how to beat the heat can help you avoid a trip to the emergency room. Stay aware, take breaks, and look out for others. Check on vulnerable neighbors, especially older adults, young children, and anyone who may struggle to stay cool. Working together, everyone can enjoy a safer, healthier summer.

For more heat safety tips, contact your local health department directly: Buchanan 276-935-4591; Dickenson 276-926-4979; Lee 276-346-2011; Russell 276-889-7621; Scott 276-386-1312; Tazewell 276-988-5585; Wise/Norton 276-328-8000.

LENOWISCO Health District and the Virginia Cancer Registry Share Updated Findings on Scott County Cancer Cluster Investigation

June 5, 2026
Media Contact: Linda Scarborough, linda.scarborough@vdh.virginia.gov

LENOWISCO Health District and the Virginia Cancer Registry Share Updated Findings on Scott County Cancer Cluster Investigation

GATE CITY, Va. – The Virginia Cancer Registry (VCR) released its updated investigation report of pediatric cancer data in Scott County that includes preliminary 2024 data. VCR identified three new childhood cancer cases in 2024 – two leukemia cases and one brain tumor. The recent investigation shows that the cancer cases reported between 2015-2024 are not considered a cluster. The VCR used CDC guidelines for examining unusual patterns of cancer to determine if a cancer cluster exists. A cancer cluster must meet five criteria.

  • Statistically more people than usual, get the same or related cancers over a specific time.
  • Same type of exposure.
  • Same population or group of people.
  • Same geographic area.
  • Same time period.

The investigation did not include environmental testing, since cancer patterns did not suggest a relationship to environmental factors/causes. If future reviews of cancer data show that environmental testing is needed, VCR would partner with state and federal agencies to collect this information.

The recent investigation is in response to community concerns regarding a potential cancer cluster. VCR continued monitoring pediatric cancer case in 2024 after releasing an initial report in January 2026.

VCR will continue monitoring Scott County and assessing pediatric cancer cases as part of its ongoing investigation. The LENOWISCO Health District and the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) recognize the community’s concern and will support the community during this ongoing process. VCR will provide regular updates. A frequently asked questions (FAQ) document is available for more information. The community can also email scottcancerinfo@vdh.virginia.gov for help.

VDH encourages the community to continue following standard public health recommendations.

For information on the original report, visit the VDH Cancer Cluster Information website.

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Stress Importance of Oral Health

April 21, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Stress Importance of Oral Health
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

WISE, Va. – This month, the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts want to remind every adult to get screened for oral cancer. Like other cancer screenings, oral cancer screenings are an effective means of finding cancer at its early, highly curable stages. Early detection is the first step toward a successful treatment.

“Oral health is a vital part of overall health and well-being; and oral cancer screenings are a simple but powerful tool to catch problems early when they are most treatable,” said Reisa Sloce, district director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “When we make time for prevention and screening, we’re not just protecting ourselves—we’re strengthening the health of our families and our entire community.”

The use of tobacco and alcohol is a leading cause of oral cancer because it leads to damage of the DNA of cells inside your mouth and throat. Another cause is through exposure to human papillomavirus virus (HPV). The quickest growing segment of the oral cancer population is young, healthy, non-smokers due to the connection to this HPV.

Self-examinations can also help detect oral cancer. Consult a healthcare provider if you find any of the following conditions:

  • A sore on your lip or in your mouth that doesn’t heal.
  • Unusual bleeding, pain or numbness in your mouth.
  • Difficulty or pain when chewing or swallowing.

To help prevent oral cancer, your local health department suggests these steps:

  • Limit Alcohol Use: Limiting your intake to no more than two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women can lower your risk.
  • Avoid Tobacco: Never using or quitting tobacco, to include cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, cigars, and/or pipes, reduces your risk.
  • Avoid HPV Infection: Talk to your healthcare provider about the HPV vaccination. The vaccine can prevent new infections of certain types of HPV associated with oral cancer.
  • Eat Healthy: Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables in your diet. These foods contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
  • Get Regular Checkups: Visit your healthcare provider and dentist regularly. The earlier oral cancer is found, the greater your chances of beating it.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Dental Health Program is designed to improve equitable access to dental care and public health interventions through community-based prevention programs.

To learn more about the Dental Health Program at VDH, contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District at 276-328-8000.

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge Community Action During Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month

April 20, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

WISE, Va. – April is Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month and the Virginia Department of Health’s Cumberland Plateau and LENOWICO Health Districts want you to know the critical importance of healthy lifestyles, immunizations, regular screenings, and early detection in reducing cancer risk and improving outcomes for Virginians.

“In communities across Virginia, especially in our rural areas, we know that the strongest defense against cancer starts with everyday choices and access to preventive care,” said Reisa Sloce, director, Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts.  “Healthy lifestyles, staying up to date on immunizations, and getting regular screenings are critically important tools that can reduce risk and catch cancers early—when it they are most treatable. By prioritizing prevention and early detection, we can improve outcomes, save lives, and build healthier futures for all Virginians.”

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Virginia. Locally, Cumberland Plateau experiences 324.5 cancer cases and 190.3 cancer deaths per 100,000.  The LENOWISCO Health District experiences 317 cancer cases and 207.6 cancer deaths per 100,000.  The most common cancers in Virginia include breast, lung, colorectal, and prostate cancer.

Early detection through screening improves survival rates. Yet disparities persist in screening rates and outcomes among different communities.

The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts offer the following programs to help our community prevent cancer or lead to early diagnosis

Additionally, Cumberland Plateau and LENOWICO Health Department offers these prevention and early detection tips:

  • Get regular screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancer as recommended by your healthcare provider.
  • Get vaccinated with the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. HPV vaccination prevents six different types of cancers from ever developing.
  • Eat a healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight, and stay physically active.
  • Avoid tobacco use and limit alcohol consumption.
  • Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure.

To learn more about VDH cancer prevention programs, eligibility for free screenings, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/cancer/resources/ or call 1-800-CDC-INFO. For more information contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District at 276-328-8000.

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Celebrate Physical Wellness Month

April 16, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts
Celebrate Physical Wellness Month
Take Steps to Be Your Healthiest Self

WISE, Va. – Spring has sprung and Physical Wellness Month offers the opportunity to plant seeds for better health. Your local health department encourages residents to prioritize their health in April.

“April is Physical Wellness Month, and it’s a reminder that taking care of our bodies doesn’t require a gym membership or a major lifestyle overhaul,” said Reisa Sloce, director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Here in our community, small, consistent steps—like walking more, choosing nourishing foods, and making time for rest—can have a powerful impact on our health. In rural areas especially, we know access can be a challenge, but we are blessed in southwest Virginia to have an abundance of beautiful trails and outdoor opportunities; wellness starts where you are, with what you have. This month, we encourage every resident to find simple, sustainable ways to move more and feel better—because a healthier community begins with each of us.”

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Departments suggest two steps to be your healthiest self.

Living a Healthy Lifestyle

Wellness is an active process of growth and change that involves choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life. You can improve your health with these choices:

  • Active Lifestyle: In Virginia, 9% adults reported that they had not participated in any physical activity in the past month. Physical activity improves brain health, cognition, anxiety, depression, quality of life, and sleep. For your wellness, adults should get 150 minutes a week of moderate activity.
  • Eat Nutritious Food: Good nutrition is key to growing healthy bodies and preventing disease. Only 7% of Virginia’s adults reported eating fruit at least twice a day. Your local health department can assist you in finding programs that focus on education and finding healthy affordable foods for your family.
  • Avoid Tobacco Use: Smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death and disability in the United States. The VDH Tobacco Use Data Dashboard shows 18.48% of residents living in the LENOWISCO Health District and 11.86% living in the Cumberland Plateau Health District were current smokers. In 2023, 6.67% of residents in LENOWISCO and 9.15% in Cumberland Plateau used smokeless tobacco and 9.40% in LENOWISCO and 5.60% in Cumberland Plateau used E-Cigarettes. Quitting smoking has health benefits at any age, no matter how long or how much you have smoked. Tobacco Cessation programs, like Quit Now Virginia and Vape Free VA help people live tobacco free.

Good health grows over time. To find out more about programs to prioritize your health, contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District at 276-328-8000.

LENOWISCO Health District Peer Recovery Specialist Nominated for Statewide Award

March 19, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, PIO, daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

LENOWISCO Health District Peer Recovery Specialist Nominated for Statewide Award

WISE, Va. — The Virginia Department of Health’s LENOWISCO Health District is proud to announce that James Mills from the Wise County Health Department has received a nomination to become SAARA’s Peer of the Year.

Each year, SAARA of Virginia’s Peer of the Year Award recognizes a peer recovery specialist who has gone above and beyond to support individuals, families, and communities on the path to recovery. Peers play a vital role in offering hope, connection, and lived experience to those navigating recovery, and we are proud to celebrate their impact across the Commonwealth.

This year, James Mills is 1 out of 10 outstanding finalists in Virginia who represent the compassion, dedication, and leadership that define peer recovery support. Voting for the 2026 Peer of the Year Award is open March 17 through April 17 on SAARA of Virginia’s website. Please take a moment to vote for James Mills as we believe he best embodies the spirit of recovery and peer support: www.saara.org/2026luncheon

“James brings compassion, understanding, and lived experience to the front lines with his job every day,” said Reisa Sloce, director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts.  His dedication helps build trust, break down stigma, and connect at-risk individuals to the resources they need. All peers play an essential role in supporting recovery and strengthening the health of our entire community.”

James Mills is a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist who works in the LENOWISCO Health District serving Lee, Scott, and Wise Counties as well as the City of Norton.  James plays a vital role in the district’s comprehensive harm reduction program which began in 2018; the very first program of its kind in Virginia! Comprehensive harm reduction is a vital public health strategy that helps prevent the spread of communicable diseases and reduce the negative impacts of substance use while connecting individuals to care and support. By offering services such as access to naloxone, syringe services, testing for infectious diseases, and referrals to treatment and recovery resources, these programs help reduce overdose deaths, reduce the spread of diseases like HIV and hepatitis C, and improve overall community health.

Harm reduction programs also create trusted, nonjudgmental spaces where individuals can access education and support, making them more likely to seek treatment when they are ready. By meeting people where they are, these programs not only save lives but also strengthen connections to long-term care, benefiting both individuals and the broader community.

LENOWISCO Health District thanks James for his dedicated service and congratulates him on his nomination for SAARA’s Peer of the Year.

Cumberland Plateau & LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge You to Plan Ahead for Spring Severe Weather Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 9-13

March 10, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau & LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge You to Plan Ahead for Spring Severe Weather
Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 9-13

WISE, Va. – As spring approaches, warmer temperatures return — and so does the risk of severe weather. During Severe Weather Awareness Week, observed March 9-13, the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge you to plan ahead before storms strike.

“As we head into the spring season, it’s important for everyone to take a few simple steps now to be ready for severe weather,” said Reisa Sloce, District Director Cumberland Plateau & LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Storms can develop quickly, bringing heavy rain, flooding, and power outages. I encourage residents to review their emergency plans, check their supplies, and stay informed through trusted local alerts. Preparing ahead of time helps protect not only your family, but also your neighbors and community.”

Spring storms can bring a variety of severe weather hazards including tornadoes, thunderstorms with lightning and flooding. Here are some tips from your local health department to keep you safe during severe weather events.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes can form with little or no warning and bring winds more than 200 miles per hour.

If you are indoors:

  • Go to a basement or storm shelter.
  • If you do not have a basement, choose an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor, away from windows.
  • Do not stay in a mobile home.
  • Remain sheltered until you are sure the storm has passed.

If you are outdoors:

  • Seek shelter in a sturdy building immediately.
  • If driving, go to the nearest safe structure if possible.
  • If no shelter is available, lie in a low area away from trees and objects that could become airborne.
  • Do not shelter under bridges or overpasses.

Thunderstorms and Lightning

Thunderstorms can form quickly, bringing strong winds and dangerous lightning. Lightning can strike up to 10 miles from a storm.

To stay safe:

  • Trim trees and secure loose outdoor items before storms.
  • Go indoors at the first sign of thunder or lightning and bring pets inside.
  • Stay away from windows.
  • Avoid using electronics or anything plugged into an outlet.
  • Stay out of showers and away from plumbing.
  • Remain indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last thunder.

If you cannot get indoors, avoid water, tall trees, and metal objects such as fences or bleachers. If someone is struck by lightning, call 911 immediately.

Flooding

Floods are the most common disaster in the United States. Floodwater can contain debris, chemicals, and other hazards.

Key safety reminders:

  • Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwater. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
  • Six inches of moving water can knock you down; one foot can sweep away a vehicle.
  • Avoid bridges over fast‑moving water.

Severe Weather Awareness Week is an opportunity for you to review safety plans, refresh emergency kits, and learn how to stay informed before storms strike. Severe weather can develop quickly. Taking simple steps now can help protect you and your family.

  • Have a plan. Talk with your family about where to go and what to do if severe weather occurs. Make sure everyone knows the safest places in your home and how to communicate during an emergency. You can create a family emergency plan online.
  • Build an emergency kit. A disaster supplies kit includes the basic items your household may need if you must shelter in place for several days. This may include water, non‑perishable food, flashlights, batteries, medications, and important documents. Guidance on what to include and where to store your kit is available at gov.
  • Stay informed. Reliable alerts save lives. Use a weather radio, the FEMA app, or local alert systems to receive timely warnings. Check the settings on your mobile device to ensure you can receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs). Make sure you understand the difference between watches and warnings so you know when to take action.

If you have questions about weather safety, please contact Delilah McFadden with the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or Darrin Rowe with the LENOWISCO Health District at 276-386-1312.

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.

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm

January 23, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, PIO; Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm

WISE, Va. – A significant winter storm is expected to impact our community this weekend. The storm will arrive as snow Saturday afternoon and pick up overnight Saturday into Sunday continuing through the day.   An increase in sleet/freezing rain potential will complicate the forecast. The increased freezing rain probabilities amplify the concern for power outages. The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge everyone to prepare now to keep you and your family safe, warm and healthy during this storm.

“We strongly encourage everyone to take the time to prepare for severe winter weather this weekend,” said Reisa Sloce, District Director of Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts.  “It is important to check on your family and friends as well as any elderly community members to make sure they are prepared before the storm and safe during and after. We want you to stay warm, safe and healthy!”

Before the Storm

Before the storm arrives, the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge 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.

For more information, contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District 276-328-8000.