Are You Prepared for Winter?

 Marty Borko, Chair of the Tioga County Legislature today proclaimed October 30 through November 5, 2005, as Winter Preparedness Week in Tioga County and urged residents to begin preparing for the upcoming season.

 "The calendar may say winter begins on December 21, but any New Yorker will tell you it comes much earlier That's why it makes sense to prepare for it today," said Chair Borko. "There are some simple, common-sense steps to take now to prepare your family and your property for the winter months ahead."
 Borko, Legislative Chair, said the first step residents can take is to be aware of local weather conditions by listening to broadcasts of NOAA Weather Radio, the National Weather Service, and local television and radio stations. "Before going out on the road, residents should listen to the local media reports or call law enforcement agencies for the latest road conditions," he said.
 Noting that safety begins at home, the Chair of the Tioga County Legislature urged residents to give their homes a safety check. "Have a professional check out your furnace, woodstove and chimney. Make certain they are in good working condition. And don't forget to replace the batteries in your smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide detectors," he said. "It is also a good idea to make certain your snow blower is ready to go to work."

 Borko said a primary concern during the winter months is the potential loss of heat, power, telephone service and a resulting shortage of supplies if storm conditions continue for more than a day.

 "Winter is especially challenging for the elderly and physically handicapped," said Borko. "Take the time to check in on your neighbor and lend them a helping hand."