Shelby Shopper Shelby NC
Issue link: https://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/1326241
Page 6 - shelby shopper & info - 704/484-1047 www.shelbyinfo.com Thursday, January 7-January 13, 2021 _` 318 South Washington St. • Shelby, NC PLEASE VISIT OUR PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE WEBSITE for for UPCOMING EVENTS UPCOMING EVENTS and and TICKET INFORMATION TICKET INFORMATION 704-487-8114 ©CommunityFirstMedia ©CommunityFirstMedia DonGibsonTheatre.com Weather is hard to pre- dict. Meteorologists have many tools at their disposal to help forecast storms and other phenomena, but it is impossible to predict the weather with 100 percent accuracy. When the weather takes a turn for the worse, the National Weather Service may issue certain notices to prepare the public. Under- standing the level of threat a notice carries can help people take appropriate ac- tion and avoid serious con- sequences. The NWS uses a four- tier system to alert the public of hazards. Here's a closer look at what each tier constitutes. Outlook This is the least seri- ous weather alert. It usu- ally means that hazardous weather may approach in the next three to seven days. The public should monitor the situation and stay tuned for further up- dates. Advisory With an advisory, weather conditions are not overly serious but could prove inconvenient. Indi- viduals should be cautious and prudent when prepar- ing supplies or traveling. Watch During a weather watch, there is an increased risk of a hazardous weather oc- currence, though the timing or location is still uncertain. This is when it is essential to practice an evacuation or preparedness plan and stock up on any last-minute supplies. Warning The most serious of the weather impact notifica- tions, a warning constitutes an imminent or likely event. The weather may cause a threat to property or life. Im- mediate action to stay safe is necessary. While these alerts are based on the severity of impending weather, it is important to note that the NWS will not necessarily follow the same timeline with issuing alerts. That depends on how fast a weather situation develops. If there is time, an advisory, then a watch and then a warning may be issued. However, if a storm moves in rapidly, only a warning may be issued. People al- ways should pay attention to weather notices so they can be prepared should severe weather be in the forecast. The differences between weather warnings and watches Unforeseen situations can crop up at any time. Anyone who has had a roadside breakdown in their car understands this. A flat tire or an engine malfunction is something no driver wants to experi- ence, but those with a well- stocked vehicle emergency kit and breakdown strategy can get through most situa- tions rather easily. A 2017 survey from AAA found that 40 percent of drivers in the United States are not ready to handle a typical roadside emergency breakdown. The organization estimates it helps some seven million motorists get back on the road each summer. A well- equipped roadside emer- gency kit may help drivers get their vehicles back on the road on their own. • First aid kit: The first aid kit will celebrate its 133rd birthday in 2021. The Johnson & Johnson company began com- mercializing first aid kits in 1888. Having a first aid kit in the car to treat minor injuries can be helpful in the event of an accident or even after injuring oneself during a breakdown. • Fire extinguisher: Cars are full of various mechani- cal parts and are suscepti- ble to catching on fire. The National Fire Protection Association says vehicle fire extinguishers need to be rated for Class B and C fires. • Jumper cables: A weak or dead battery is often the culprit in break- downs. Jumper cables en- able drivers to get a charge from another motorist, and may help get a person back on the road quickly. If possible, get a set of ca- bles that also comes with safety gloves and heavy duty clamps, offers Defen- sive Driving Online, a de- fensive driving course. • Mobile phone/char- ger: A mobile phone is essential for calling for as- sistance, but the phone is only useful if it's charged. • Blanket: Keep a blan- ket in the trunk or another storage area. Should the vehicle die in cold weather, that blanket can help keep passengers warm until as- sistance arrives. • Basic tools: Tools like a screwdriver, ratchet set and wrench may enable drivers to complete minor repairs. Tools also should include tire-changing gear, such as a jack and lug nut remover. • Traction aid: Non- clumping kitty litter or sand can provide the traction needed to get off of a slip- pery area of roadway. • Flashlight: A flashlight can help keep you visible and able to see your sur- roundings in dark condi- tions. • Flares: Should a breakdown occur in the dark, flares can alert other drivers. • Snacks and water: Water and food that stores well, such as emergency rations, granola bars or trail mix, can quell hunger pangs and provide an en- ergy boost while waiting for help. • Rope/bungee cords/ tarp: These items can be used in various situations to secure a vehicle. While drivers can gather these items separately, many companies offer all- in-one vehicle emergency kits. A safety kit is essential for all drivers. Stock up on vehicle breakdown supplies