Winter Weather Preparedness Guidance

Image of the Arch at the University of Georgia, in snowy conditions.

Posted: January 8, 2025

  • Check with local officials for information about warming centers and comfort station locations.
  • Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches. 
  • Keep heat sources at least three feet away from furniture and drapes. 
  • Insulate your home and ensure doors and windows are sealed. 
  • Check and install a working carbon monoxide detector. 
  • Have backup heat sources like extra blankets, sleeping bags, or a wood-burning fireplace. 
  • Check your antifreeze, brakes, heater, tires, and wipers. 
  • Keep your gas tank at least half full. 
  • Carry an emergency Ready kit with items like a portable phone charger, ice scraper, extra blanket, sand for traction, and jumper cables. 
  • Use generators outdoors and at least 20 feet from doors, windows, or vents to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. 
  • Allow pipes to drip or insulate them to prevent freezing. 
  • Keep pets indoors and check on elderly or disabled relatives and neighbors. 


For more winter weather preparedness tips, visit gema.georgia.gov/winter.


The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) will provide ongoing updates regarding winter weather conditions via its website and social media accounts. Residents are encouraged to monitor National Weather Service updates and local news stations. 


State employees are encouraged make themselves familiar with the state's inclement weather policy.