With the possibility of inclement weather and extended periods of sub-freezing temperatures expected to begin Friday and continue through the weekend, Okmulgee County Emergency Management, along with partner agencies, is urging residents to take time now to prepare and stay informed.

Emergency officials stress that preparation and not panic is the key to staying safe during winter weather events.

“Be prepared, not scared,” officials said, noting that early preparation can help families weather power outages, travel disruptions and dangerous cold conditions more safely.

— Prepare for possible power outages

Winter storms often bring the risk of power interruptions, sometimes lasting for extended periods. Residents are encouraged to prepare now by:

• Charging cell phones and battery packs ahead of time

• Having flashlights, extra batteries and a weather radio on hand

• Using generators outdoors only and never inside homes, garages or near windows Officials also remind residents to conserve battery power during outages and check on neighbors who may rely on electricity for medical equipment.

— Plan ahead for travel impacts

Icy roads, freezing rain and winter precipitation can make travel hazardous very quickly. Emergency management officials recommend:

• Avoiding unnecessary travel whenever possible

• Keeping gas tanks at least half full in case of delays or detours

• Carrying an emergency kit in vehicles, including blankets, food, water and a phone charger Drivers who must be on the road should allow extra travel time and remain alert for changing road conditions.

— Prepare your home now

Household preparation is especially important during prolonged cold spells. Residents are advised to:

• Have at least three days of food and water for each person in the household

• Use safe heating methods only and keep flammable items away from heat sources

• Protect pipes from freezing by insulating exposed lines and allowing faucets to drip if temperatures drop significantly

• Check on pets and ensure they are protected from the cold Officials also remind residents to never use grills, ovens or generators indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

— Stay informed and connected

Staying up to date with weather conditions and official guidance is critical during winter events. Residents are encouraged to:

• Monitor local forecasts and emergency alerts

• Follow Okmulgee County Emergency Management’s Facebook page for updates

• Rely on trusted weather sources such as the U.S. National Weather Service – Tulsa Community members are also asked to check on neighbors, especially those who are elderly, have disabilities or may need assistance during cold weather.

— MN Lighthorse issues winter safety reminder As winter weather moves into the area, the Muscogee Nation Lighthorse Police Department is also reminding residents to take extra precautions to protect themselves, their families and their animals.

Driving Safety Tips

• Slow down and increase following distance

• Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns

• Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with a blanket, water, flashlight and phone charger

• If travel is not necessary, staying home is the safest option Pets & Livestock

• Bring pets indoors when possible or provide warm, dry shelter

• Ensure animals have access to unfrozen water and adequate food

• Provide extra bedding or windbreaks for livestock and outdoor animals Home Safety

• Protect pipes from freezing

• Use space heaters safely and keep them away from anything flammable

• Never use grills or generators indoors

• Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working properly Check on Elders & Neighbors

• Residents are encouraged to take a moment to check on elders, neighbors and anyone who may need additional help during the cold weather.

– Emergency officials emphasize that taking simple steps now can make a significant difference if severe winter weather impacts the area.

“Preparing ahead of time helps keep everyone safe,” officials said. “A little planning today can prevent emergencies tomorrow.”

Residents are encouraged to remain weather- aware throughout the weekend and to look out for one another as temperatures drop.

Please follow Okmulgee County Emergency Management social media page for updates as conditions develop.