From important numbers you should know to advice on how to safely shovel snow, here&#39;s Newsday&#39;s guide to keeping your homes, your pets and yourselves safe during extreme winter weather.

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Newsday Staff

TRANSPORTATION 
NICE Bus: Check <a href="https://www.nicebus.com/">nicebus.com</a> or call 516-336-6600. 
Suffolk County Transit: Check <a href="https://sctbus.org/">sctbus.org</a> or call 631-852-5200 
LIRR and NY transit: Customers should monitor <a href="https://new.mta.info/">mta.info</a>, the TrainTime app or call 511 for the most current service information. 
POWER OUTAGES 
Outages should be reported by calling 800-490-0075, texting OUT to PSEGLI (773454), or reporting online <a href="https://myaccount.psegliny.com/dashboards/reportoutageguestdashboard">here</a>. 
NATIONAL GRID 
Gas leaks on Long Island should be reported to 911 or 800-490-0045. 
TO REPORT FALLEN TREES AND LIMBS ON ROADS 
Nassau County: Call the Office of Emergency Management at 516-573-0636. 
Suffolk County: Calls should be made to town or city officials. 
NASSAU COUNTY TOWNS/CITY CONTACTS 
North Hempstead: Call the 311 Call Center at 311 or 516-869-6311. 
Hempstead: Call the town at 516-489-5000. 
Oyster Bay: Call the Highway Department at 516-677-5757. 
Glen Cove: Call City Hall at 516-676-2000 or the Public Works Department at 516-676-4402. 
Long Beach: Call the police department at 516-431-1800 on weekends; call the Public Works Department at 516-431-1011 on weekdays. 
SUFFOLK COUNTY TOWN CONTACTS 
Babylon: Call 311 or the public works department at 631-957-8696. 
Brookhaven: Call the Highway Department at 631-451-8696. 
East Hampton: Call the police department 631-537-7575. 
Huntington: Call the Highway Department at 631-499-0444. 
Islip: Call the public works department at 631-224-5306 on weekends or 631-224-5600 on weekdays. 
Riverhead: Call the police department at 631-727-4500. 
Shelter Island: Call the police department at 631-749-0600. 
Smithtown: Call the public safety department at 631-360-7553. 
Southampton: Call the police department at 631-728-5000. 
Southold: Call the police department&nbsp;at 631-765-2600.

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Storm preparedness: Phone numbers you need to know in an emergency

Storm aftermath: Phone numbers you need to know

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Rachel Weiss

East Northport resident Denise Schwartz was ready to take on last weekend's snow storm. 
Her two sons, both in their 20s, were on shoveling duty, while Schwartz made sure the family was&nbsp;stocked up on groceries. She periodically brushed&nbsp;the snow off her front steps with a broom, to ensure that the entrance stayed clear. 
"The issue is, we're not used to it, because it hasn't happened in a while," she said. 
But after checking the forecast leading up to last Sunday's snowfall, "we were very well-warned to be prepared to be stuck in the house," she said. 
But is Long Island ready for round two? 
Last weekend's storm was a wake-up call to some Long Islanders, who haven't experienced this level of snow in several years. (The last winter storm to bring a comparable amount of snowfall to Long Island was in <a href="https://www.newsday.com/news/weather/dangerous-cold-long-island-y28392tf">2022</a>). 
And <a href="https://www.newsday.com/news/weather/bomb-cyclone-atlantic-storm-y8y2mn08">more snow</a> might be just around the corner for some parts of Long Island. 
Here's how to prepare your property for even more snow, and maybe fix some mistakes from the last round, as told by experts. 
<h2>From snowblowers to salt, stock up on the right tools</h2> 
"This depth of snow is perfect for snowblowers," said John Berlingieri, founder and CEO of Berrington Snow Removal in Holbrook. "It's kind of powdery, so it works very well. With shoveling, each scoop of snow is quite heavy." 
So getting a snowblower this winter is recommended, if possible — Berlingieri's company uses the Toro brand, and he also mentioned Ariens as a popular and trusted model. But no matter the kind, just make sure your machine is fueled up before the storm hits, Berlingieri added. 
There is a rock salt shortage currently affecting stores and snow removal contractors, Berlingieri said. But if you can find it, salt is another essential tool for a homeowner's snow arsenal, and should be used before the flakes begin to fall. 
"At people's houses, if they apply salt before the storm, it won't create an icy bond under the snow," he said. "Then,&nbsp;it'll come right up when you're shoveling." 
Joseph Fiorini is the owner of Fiorini Landscape in Melville. He also suggests to salt&nbsp;before the snowfall: "If you didn't do the pre-salt last time and you had a hard time [shoveling], that's the No. 1 best thing to do," he said. 
<h2>Help USPS, Amazon and yourself with snow-related blind spots</h2> 
Chances are, you have some new friends on your property who showed up last weekend and have overstayed their welcome: Giant piles of snow, created from all that shoveling you've done. 
They aren't going anywhere unless you intervene, Berlingieri said. 
"What I've seen with residential customers is that they have really big piles at the end of their driveways that are obstructing their view for traffic, and for Amazon deliveries or postmen," he said. "So I think that's key, if they can chop down those piles and spread it out along their lawn." 
Using a metal shovel can scrape up a composite deck or potentially rip up a wood deck, Berlingieri said. And of course, making sure not to toss any snow onto your road while shoveling is a must. 
Shoveling is "more strenuous" on the body than snow-blowing, Fiorini said. In last weekend's snowstorm, his team shoveled snow at a condo complex in Manhasset for 15 hours — he recommends taking lots of breaks and clearing the snow as it's still falling. 
"A lot of people just wait until the end [to shovel]," Fiorini said. "And if you're a homeowner, that's not always best." 
<h2>Car and road tips</h2> 
This time around, there's one thing East Meadow resident Joanne Abruzzo will do differently in the snow. 
"I'm going to keep my car at the end of the driveway, so I won't get stuck in like I did the other day," she said. 
Since last weekend, Robert Sinclair, Jr., spokesman for AAA Northeast, said the most commonly-asked question from customers is: "Why is my car vibrating?" 
"There can be snow and ice caked up inside the wheels," Sinclair said. 
This can throw off the balance of your vehicle, and a quick way to fix it is to head to the car wash. 
"They'll spray inside the wheels and get the ice and snow off," he said. "Also, the car wash is good since we're using so much salt in the roads, it gets underneath the vehicle and can lead to rust and corrosion, so you can get the undercarriage washed, too." <a class="p-smartembed" data-onecms-id="contentid/8044a8f0-1970-4bf0-8f35-de973b578b12" data-onecms-type="storywidget" data-subtype="infoBox" href="javascript:window.parent.actionEventData({$contentId:'contentid/8044a8f0-1970-4bf0-8f35-de973b578b12', $action:'view', $target:'work'})" polopoly:contentid="contentid/8044a8f0-1970-4bf0-8f35-de973b578b12">STORYWIDGET: HOSNOW260130_list</a> 
"Tires and batteries are the top two items we get calls for at AAA, and batteries lose power as it gets cold," Sinclair added. 
Keeping an eye on the car's battery life and making sure the top of the car is clear of snow and ice are vital before hitting the road post-storm (at a low speed, of course). 
But, Sinclair suggests, "if you can do so, stay home." 
Staying off the roads protects not only yourself, but the people working to make travel easier after the storm. 
"We want everyone to stay safe and stay off the roads because it makes our job so much more difficult when everyone's at the stores," said Berlingieri, whose company plows snow in commercial properties and parking lots. 
"We do a lot of Stop and Shops and Costcos, and there people are running out in the middle of a blizzard. It wasn't that bad this time, I will say, since it was a big storm, but it makes it really difficult. Please stay home."

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More snow for Long Island? How to prep your house, driveway, car and more.

More snow might be coming to LI. Here's how to prep your house — and fix mistakes from last weekend.

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Lorena Mongelli

Long Island schools are gearing up to tackle the threat of a major storm packing heavy snowfall this weekend, and likely to continue Monday.&nbsp;Some high school athletic events&nbsp;have already been canceled or rescheduled.&nbsp; 
Severe weather&nbsp;could disrupt travel and dump more than a&nbsp;foot of snow in the region, with most of the snow accumulating on Sunday, according to the National Weather Service.&nbsp;Friday is also projected to bring subfreezing temperatures that will last through part of next week.&nbsp; 
School superintendents said they’re getting plows and equipment in position as they continue monitoring the forecast.&nbsp;Here's what parents need to know about how schools are preparing for the projected event.&nbsp; 
<h3>Will any events be canceled this weekend?</h3> 
Tom Combs, executive director of <a href="https://sectionxi.org/about-us/mission-statement/">Section XI Athletics</a>,&nbsp;which oversees scholastic sports in Suffolk, said a girls track meet&nbsp;scheduled for Sunday was moved to Saturday afternoon, and a junior varsity cheerleading competition scheduled&nbsp;for Sunday was canceled. Combs said there are more than three dozen basketball games currently scheduled for Monday that could also be impacted. Section VIII Athletics,&nbsp;which oversees Nassau scholastic sports, did not immediately return calls for comment. 
<h3>How are decisions about weather-related closures made?</h3> 
District superintendents said they consider snowfall amounts, icy conditions, temperatures and travel conditions. Parking lots, walkways, paths and roads need to be&nbsp;cleared.&nbsp;The schools coordinate with local officials, agencies and transportation partners to determine the best course of action. 
Timothy Eagen, president of the Suffolk County School Superintendents Association, said in an email, "District officials will be speaking to town highway departments and facilities supervisors before making decisions."&nbsp;He added that the timing of when the storm hits also matters. 
Marie Testa, president of the Nassau County Council of School Superintendents, said districts also communicate with each other across Long Island&nbsp;and with Nassau BOCES. Judith Larocca, superintendent of Valley Stream schools District 13, said they must also make sure maintenance staff “can travel to the buildings safely” to remove snow.&nbsp; 
<h3>When will decisions about closures be made?</h3> 
Most districts said they will be making a decision Sunday&nbsp;afternoon or evening about potential closures on Monday. At least one district said it could make a decision on Monday morning. 
<h3>What are the contingency plans?</h3> 
Some districts said&nbsp;there could also be delayed openings on Monday.&nbsp;"We have established weather-related closure procedures in place, including either a 2-hour delayed opening or full closure, and maintain regular communication with neighboring districts and Eastern Suffolk BOCES to coordinate responses,"&nbsp;Lance Lohman, superintendent of Longwood Central schools, said in a statement.&nbsp; 
<h3>In the event of a school closure Monday, will schools have a traditional snow day or switch to online learning?</h3> 
Most districts said they have incorporated one to&nbsp;three&nbsp;snow days into the academic year. Robert&nbsp;Lowry, deputy director for Advocacy, Research&nbsp;and Communications&nbsp;at the New York State Council of School Superintendents, said in an email that districts only shift to remote instruction after&nbsp;"exhaust[ing] available days.” East Hampton schools Superintendent Adam Fine said a traditional snow day is “important to the community,” and is included in the calendar year but “if we have subsequent snow days, we will then go remote.” 
<h3>How will parents and students be notified?</h3> 
School superintendents said parents will receive texts and calls through their specific notifications systems. Closures are also posted on newsday.com, school websites and on&nbsp;social media. 
<h3>What do school districts say about enjoying snow days?&nbsp;</h3> 
If classes are canceled Monday,&nbsp;district officials encouraged children and families to stay safe and to make the best of it. “With snow days becoming such a rare event on Long Island these past few years, we like the idea of having our students enjoy a good old-fashioned snow day when possible," Marc Ferris, superintendent of Sayville schools, said in an email.&nbsp;

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Snow day Monday? How school officials decide with major storm predicted

How LI school officials make a snow day decision

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Matthew Chayes

<a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=40.729025&amp;lon=-73.210578">Unusually frigid temperatures</a>, long-lasting and coupled with snow, threaten to disrupt the often invisible&nbsp;societal scaffolding that supports&nbsp;life on Long Island. 
After a brief warm-up on Wednesday and Thursday, "we get cold again" through at least Tuesday, with some temperatures in the teens and 20s that will feel subzero, potentially closer to 10 below at night in some spots on&nbsp;the East End, said Joe Pollina, a National Weather Service meteorologist based in Upton. 
From the end of January through mid-February, Pollina said,&nbsp;there’s a 33% to 40% chance of below-normal temperatures, typically with lows in the 20s, highs in the 30s. 
<h3>Lives in danger</h3> 
For those on Long Island who have no place to live, the subfreezing conditions&nbsp;can quickly&nbsp;turn life-threatening, particularly for people who live outdoors. 
Jessica Labia-Bookstaver, director of support programs at the <a href="https://www.addressthehomeless.org/">Long Island Coalition for the Homeless</a>, said there are more than 4,500 homeless people on Long Island, with most in shelters and about 400 known to be unsheltered. 
In the last year or so, about a dozen homeless people on the Island have died — and that is likely an undercount, Labia-Bookstaver said. <a class="p-smartembed" data-attr-caption="Items donated to the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless in Amityville.
" data-attr-credit="Newsday" data-attr-f="3x2" data-attr-has-caption="true" data-attr-has-credit="true" data-attr-q="0.3" data-attr-w="400" data-onecms-id="contentid/f2e17ad0-2aba-4bb4-b482-094468b0e187" data-onecms-type="image" href="javascript:window.parent.actionEventData({$contentId:'contentid/f2e17ad0-2aba-4bb4-b482-094468b0e187', $action:'view', $target:'work'})" polopoly:contentid="contentid/f2e17ad0-2aba-4bb4-b482-094468b0e187"><img src="/image-service/alias/contentid/f2e17ad0-2aba-4bb4-b482-094468b0e187/_1DS0055.jpg?f=3x2&amp;w=400&amp;q=0.3">Items donated to the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless in Amityville. </a> 
To help the homeless population, the organization has programs doing outreach, assessment and tries to distribute coats, blankets and sleeping bags. 
When it gets cold, the organization steps up its outreach. 
"Homelessness is a really, really important issue," she said, "and it’s something that really is hidden on Long Island." 
She lamented: "There is a lot of need." 
<h3>Crop watch</h3> 
The cold conditions&nbsp;can&nbsp;pose a profound risk&nbsp;for most of the roughly 600 farms on the Island, whether on fields or in greenhouses, said Bill Zalakar, executive director of the <a href="https://www.lifb.com/">Long Island Farm Bureau</a>. 
Flowers from greenhouses won’t be sold or distributed because consumers won’t plant in the cold if the flowers will wither and die. Fields can’t be accessed. Planting and cultivating and harvesting of crops must be delayed. So sales will drop. 
Early crops like spinach, lettuce and asparagus can’t be planted. 
"It cuts the farmer’s income," Zalakar&nbsp;said, with the process delayed by weeks. 
Even crops that are planted later in the year can be affected. 
Green beans, for example, can take four to eight weeks to produce, and farmers bank on getting a crop in early, harvesting it, and executing what’s called crop rotation. 
When it’s too cold and the winter is longer than usual, there isn’t enough time to get two or more crops — and with lettuce, as many as six — in a field over the course of the year. With a cold season, a farmer may get as few as four, he said. 
Ken Stein, president of Sayville Ferry Service, said he remembers&nbsp;growing up in the 1970s in the hamlet, how "there was a lot more ice" and "the bay froze all the time." 
But back then, there were fewer winterized homes on Fire Island, and nowadays, years can pass without the bay freezing over, Stein said. 
<h3>Frozen bays</h3> 
This year, there’s the potential that those who rely on ferries to and from the mainland won’t easily be able to travel for, say, shopping or medical appointments. 
<a href="https://www.newsday.com/news/weather/fire-island-ferry-service-halted-great-south-bay-ice-a3kn25pf">When inclement weather puts the bay at risk for freezing</a>, there can be fewer passengers, less service and possible shuttered service if the bay freezes over entirely — and, consequently, less revenue. 
"We cannot go through ice," he said, "nor are the boats designed to break ice." 
Stein — whose company operates ferries&nbsp;Friday, Saturday and Sunday&nbsp;in the winter, one roundtrip in the morning, one in the afternoon — said that ferry management monitors conditions a day before by checking water temperature in the bay, as well as wind conditions — which can actually keep water moving and prevent it from icing&nbsp;— and the sun, which can ease freezing or avert it entirely. 
Year-round Fire Island residency&nbsp;can be fickle. 
"Living on Fire Island is beautiful, and you’re blessed if you can. But people have to realize it has both positives and negatives, right?" Stein said. "The positive is, you’re on an island that’s removed from the mainland. It’s beautiful. It’s paradise. It’s quiet and surreal. But the negative is, times like this, like if there is no way to get back and forth by ferry, now you have to rely on contractors or people who have year-round driving permits that might be able to get you on and off the island." 
NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie contributed to this story.

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Frigid temperatures on Long Island bring host of physical, financial threats

Frigid temps on LI bring host of physical, financial threats

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The Long Island Coalition for the Homeless says they have three teams of outreach specialists&nbsp;helping&nbsp;homeless people across Long Island. NewsdayTV&#39;s&nbsp;Virginia Huie reports.

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Cold weather impacts homeless Long Islanders

Newsday

'We've had about 12 of our own clients pass away'

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Brianne Ledda

After a week in Florida, Alan McDougall, 70, came back to a cold snap on Long Island that lowered his tires’ air pressure. 
He stopped at a gas station in Babylon, his hometown, on Thursday to fill them up. While he doesn't think the storm will be as bad as forecasters say, he's prepared anyway, with a snowblower and shovel ready to go. 
"I'm pretty well set if it does snow," he said, adding:&nbsp;"I don't plan on driving anywhere. Maybe Starbucks, that's about it." 
Public safety officials and auto safety experts warned Long Island motorists&nbsp;to prepare ahead of a weekend snowstorm that <a href="https://www.newsday.com/news/weather/winter-storm-long-island-ts16w6vl">forecasters predict</a> could be the biggest to hit the region since late January 2022. 
Here’s what Long Island drivers need to know to stay safe before, during and after the storm. 
<h3>Before the storm</h3> <a class="p-smartembed" data-attr-caption="Alan McDougall, 70, of Babylon stands at a gas station as he checks his car’s tire pressure after returning from a trip to Florida ahead of a winter storm forecast to hit Long Island." data-attr-credit="Newsday" data-attr-has-caption="true" data-attr-has-credit="true" data-attr-q="0.3" data-attr-w="400" data-onecms-id="contentid/0d086569-a350-4929-aed6-583f14420e52" data-onecms-type="image" href="javascript:window.parent.actionEventData({$contentId:'contentid/0d086569-a350-4929-aed6-583f14420e52', $action:'view', $target:'work'})" polopoly:contentid="contentid/0d086569-a350-4929-aed6-583f14420e52"><img src="/image-service/alias/contentid/0d086569-a350-4929-aed6-583f14420e52/IMG_5497.jpg?w=400&amp;q=0.3">Alan McDougall, 70, of Babylon stands at a gas station as he checks his car’s tire pressure after returning from a trip to Florida ahead of a winter storm forecast to hit Long Island.</a> 
Drivers should prepare a <a href="https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter-before">safety kit</a> ahead of the storm in case they're trapped in their vehicles, experts said, with items that include:&nbsp; 
<ul> 
 <li>a snow brush</li> 
 <li>water</li> 
 <li>a cellphone charger</li> 
 <li>extra blankets</li> 
 <li>extra socks</li> 
 <li>an extra coat</li> 
 <li>a flashlight</li> 
 <li>road flares</li> 
 <li>a first aid kit</li> 
 <li>nonperishable food items</li> 
 <li>basic repair tools, like a spare tire and jumper cables</li> 
</ul> 
To avoid driving in the first place, people should&nbsp;stock up on whatever they might need, said New York State Police Capt. Timothy Gleason. 
That could include things like batteries, food&nbsp;and oil for heating their homes, he said, adding that drivers should plan to avoid street-parking to allow snowplows and emergency vehicles to get through. 
Timothy Sokol, owner of Elite Auto Parts in Lindenhurst, said drivers should also&nbsp;fill up their fuel tanks. 
"If you can't get to the gas station, or the gas station can't open because they can't get plowed out, there will be nowhere to get fuel," he said. "At least if you start full, you're okay for a couple of days."&nbsp; 
Long Islanders planning to drive during the weekend squall should make sure their vehicles are in tiptop shape, too, experts said. 
“Make sure all your lights work — headlights, blinkers, everything,” Sokol said.&nbsp; 
Before the storm hits, to protect visibility, drivers should replace windshield wipers older than 6&nbsp;months and top off their windshield washer&nbsp;fluid with a dedicated winter formula, said&nbsp;Robert Sinclair, a spokesman for AAA Northeast. 
Low temperatures can affect tires and batteries, too, he warned. 
Check that tire pressure meets manufacturer recommendations, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver-side door jamb, Sinclair said. Cold weather lowers tire pressure. An underinflated tire has worse traction and a higher risk of blowing out. 
Cold temperatures also weaken battery power. To avoid a dead battery, drivers with batteries past their shelf life — generally three to five years — should ask a technician before the storm to test whether a vehicle’s electrical charging system is producing enough power and visually inspect battery terminals to make sure they’re clean, Sinclair said. 
“Do that before the bad weather hits,” he said. 
<h3>During the storm</h3> 
Pay attention to advisories about road closures and driving conditions, Gleason said, and avoid driving during hazardous weather if possible.&nbsp; 
It's also important for drivers to know their location, he said. Motorists should know which exits they are&nbsp;between, their direction of travel and the name of the roadway they are&nbsp;traveling on. That makes it easier for emergency responders to find drivers who&nbsp;need help. 
It's important to have a tow company ready to call in case drivers&nbsp;get stuck in a snowbank, Sokol said.&nbsp; 
Stranded drivers should move their vehicles off the roadway but stay in the car, Gleason said. As they wait inside the car, they should run the engine for short periods of time for heat, but keep a window cracked&nbsp;and make sure the tailpipe is clear to avoid breathing in carbon monoxide. Drivers should call 911 for help if needed. 
Drivers should also plan for enough traveling time and drive “appropriately for the weather conditions,” Gleason said. 
“Oftentimes people who do have accidents are driving at a speed that’s not reasonable and prudent for the weather conditions," he said. 
Sinclair urged drivers to drive below posted speed limits during the storm, and to leave lots of space between their car and the&nbsp;vehicle in front of them. The state has&nbsp;also <a href="https://www.ny.gov/winter-safety-tips">warned</a> against closely following or attempting to pass a snowplow.&nbsp; 
Drivers with antilock brakes who&nbsp;find themselves starting to slide&nbsp;should gently press&nbsp;the brakes and steer in the direction they want to go, Sinclair advised. 
“Brake, then steer, then accelerate," he said.&nbsp;"But the best thing to do to deal with slide is to slow down so it never happens.” 
Sokol emphasized that all passengers should be wearing their seat belts.&nbsp; 
"You can’t put them on when the car starts spinning,” he said.&nbsp; 
<h3>After the storm</h3> <a class="p-smartembed" data-attr-caption="Timothy Sokol, owner of Elite Auto Parts in Lindenhurst, with a snow blower at his shop as he prepares for a winter storm forecast to hit Long Island." data-attr-credit="" data-attr-has-caption="true" data-attr-has-credit="true" data-attr-q="0.3" data-attr-w="400" data-onecms-id="contentid/e509ecd8-df29-4938-9c97-60e996782140" data-onecms-type="image" href="javascript:window.parent.actionEventData({$contentId:'contentid/e509ecd8-df29-4938-9c97-60e996782140', $action:'view', $target:'work'})" polopoly:contentid="contentid/e509ecd8-df29-4938-9c97-60e996782140"><img src="/image-service/alias/contentid/e509ecd8-df29-4938-9c97-60e996782140/BZCARS260123_0.jpg?w=400&amp;q=0.3">Timothy Sokol, owner of Elite Auto Parts in Lindenhurst, with a snow blower at his shop as he prepares for a winter storm forecast to hit Long Island.</a> 
Clear the car of snow and ice so other vehicles and pedestrians aren’t hit by falling debris, Gleason said. Drivers should also make sure they shovel walkways in front of their residences and that fire hydrants are cleared near where they live. 
Before getting in the car, all drivers, but especially those in smaller vehicles, should make sure their tailpipe is clear of snow and ice, Sinclair said. A blockage could force exhaust into the vehicle, which can have fatal consequences.&nbsp; 
“It is an unfortunate tragedy every year when we get a major snowstorm,” he said. “Death by carbon monoxide, you don’t even realize it’s happening. You feel a little sleepy, you drift off to sleep, and next thing you know, you’re dead." 
After the snow and ice clear, it's also a good idea to wash the car to get rid of road salt, which can ruin a paint job and accelerate rust, he said.&nbsp; 
While driving after the storm, drivers should keep an eye out for black ice, Sinclair added. One tip for recognizing the phenomenon is to watch the vehicle in front of you. If it’s kicking up spray, the road is just wet. But if the road looks wet and nearby vehicles are not kicking up spray, then there’s ice, he said. Bridges and overpasses are particularly prone to freezing. 
Drivers should also watch out for potholes, Sinclair said. Some could be masked by snow and ice. 
But regardless of preparation or post-storm cleanup, officials said the most important advice applies before and during the storm. 
“Without a doubt, you need to be prepared for this storm,” Sinclair&nbsp;said. “Best advice? Stay home."

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BZCAR260124

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What Long Island drivers need to know before, during and after a winter storm

Tips for drivers to prep for the winter storm

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AIAudio - What Long Island drivers need to know before, during and after a winter storm

Long Islanders are bracing&nbsp;for a winter storm this weekend. Newsday Reporter Brianne Ledda has some car safety tips.&nbsp;

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Winter storm car safety tips

New York State

Winter storm safety tips

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Lisa L. Colangelo

Long Islanders will have plenty of snow to clear in the coming days, and those without cooperative kids, a snowblower or hired help might end up with sore backs. 
But shoveling snow also comes with more serious health hazards, from back sprains and herniated discs to hypothermia and heart attacks — resulting in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/seasonal-safety/winter-safety/snow-shoveling?srsltid=AfmBOopAHmA09gDeoVRSYjxEak6azoQmR1fBPwvWLo50eb0T9u1V4qq7">t</a><a href="https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/seasonal-safety/winter-safety/snow-shoveling?srsltid=AfmBOopAHmA09gDeoVRSYjxEak6azoQmR1fBPwvWLo50eb0T9u1V4qq7" target="_blank">housands of injuries and about 100 deaths each year</a>, according to a 2010 study. 
"Snow is heavier than people think," said Dr. Austen Katz, an orthopedic spine surgeon with Northwell Health. "That first shovel of wet snow can weigh 10 to 20 pounds. If someone is not physically active, going from minimal activity to what may be a maximum effort is going to put you at risk of an injury." 
Katz recommends that people warm up before heading outside by rotating their torso, stretching their hamstrings, rolling their shoulders and even marching in place. 
Picking the right shovel is key, said Dr. Michael Schwartz, an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist with NYU Langone — Long Island. 
Using an ergonomic one with a curved handle can make a difference, he said. 
"When you shovel snow, you put excess stress on the lower back and joints," Schwartz said. "There are studies that show there's a decreased amount of stress on the lumbar spine when you are using a bent shaft shovel, and also reduced risk of injury as well." 
Maintaining a proper spinal posture means don’t round your shoulders or your back, he said. Avoid leaning over and try to keep your spine straight while shoveling. 
"You want to make sure you’re bending at your hips and knees and not at the waist," Katz said. "You want to keep the shovel close to your body and you want to try to avoid twisting while you're lifting the shovel. Focus on lifting with your legs and not your back." 
Try not to rush. Katz said the majority of injuries happen within the first 20 minutes of shoveling. 
"You definitely want to take breaks, maybe every 10 to 15 minutes," he said. "Pace yourself and hydrate." 
Even in the cold weather, people can become <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/news/2019/12/19/are-you-drinking-enough-water-during-winter-months" target="_blank">dehydrated</a> if they don’t drink enough water. 
Moving snow out of the way instead of lifting it and tossing it is also less stressful on a person’s body, doctors said. 
"Another risk of snow shoveling is rotator cuff injuries," Schwartz said. "That's something that I see commonly in my office. Lifting heavy loads of snow with a shovel tends to put a lot of stress on the shoulder, especially lifting overhead. Don’t throw it over your shoulder. Put the snow to the side." 
The most important advice is to listen to your body and stop when you start feeling pain and discomfort instead of working through it, Katz said. 
The American Heart Association also advised that for people who don’t regularly exercise, shoveling can put a strain on their heart. The cold weather can cause heart rate and blood pressure to increase.

Health

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Orthopedic surgeons give tips for shoveling snow safely

Orthopedic surgeons' tips on shoveling snow safely

AIAudio - Orthopedic surgeons give tips for shoveling snow safely


AIAudio - Orthopedic surgeons give tips for shoveling snow safely

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Maureen Mullarkey

Winter is in full swing on Long Island, and experts have some tips to help you keep yourself, your home and your family safe in cold conditions. 
<h3>FOR YOU</h3> 
<ul> 
 <li>If you need to be outside, cover as much exposed skin as possible, the National Weather Service says. Head inside if you start to lose feeling in any extremity.</li> 
 <li>Wear a hat.&nbsp;Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves, the NWS says.&nbsp;Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold.</li> 
 <li>The service also warns it’s important to stay hydrated, as the cold makes dehydration occur faster.</li> 
</ul> 
<h3>FOR YOUR PETS</h3> 
<ul> 
 <li>More pets are lost in the winter than any other time of the year, as they lose the ability to scent their way home in snow and icy conditions, the <a href="https://suffolkspca.org/">Suffolk County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals</a> website says.</li> 
 <li>Pets should be inside as much as possible and&nbsp;have ID tags; limit walks.</li> 
 <li>It is illegal in Suffolk County to keep your dog outside when temperatures are below 32 degrees or there’s a wind-chill advisory, watch or warning in effect, the SPCA says. Never leave a pet in the car during these conditions.</li> 
 <li>If dogs seems to whine on walks, lift up their&nbsp;paws or stop, as chances are that their paws are too cold. Check for red, white or gray and scaly skin on dogs and cats as signs of frostbite. Dogs can also wear booties as salts and snow-melting agents can irritate paws.</li> 
 <li>Outdoor cats and other animals will often seek shelter beneath the hood of a car and can be killed by fans or belts, the SPCA website says. Before starting your car, bang on the hood or blow your horn in the case of a cat hiding in it.</li> 
</ul> 
<h3>FOR YOUR HOME</h3> 
<ul> 
 <li>To prevent frozen pipes, shut off water that flows to the outside, then drain remaining water from the outside spigot.</li> 
 <li>Consider insulating any pipes in unheated areas. You can apply foam insulation or wrap pipes in heat tape or thermostat-controlled heat cables.</li> 
 <li>Start a drip of water from all faucets served by exposed pipes to relieve pressure in case of freezing.&nbsp;</li> 
 <li> If pipes have burst, turn off the main water supply and call a plumber. If the pipe is intact and you can access the frozen section, you can try applying heat with a hair dryer or&nbsp;space heater (never left unattended) or warm, damp towels.&nbsp; </li> 
 <li>If you won’t be home during a cold night, leave the heat on, set to a temperature of no less than 55 degrees.</li> 
 <li>PSEG Long Island says&nbsp;to also check that your home isn’t leaking heat, as warm air can escape&nbsp;and cold air can come in through faulty ductwork, ineffective weather stripping or poorly insulated attic access doors, among other gaps.</li> 
 <li>Use sunny days to your advantage by keeping drapes open during the day and closing off windows with heavy drapes once the sun sets.</li> 
 <li>Make sure heating vents aren’t covered by furniture. Energy Star, the Environmental Protection Agency’s energy efficiency program, says&nbsp;to try using a ceiling fan to keep air circulating — hot air that’s risen to the top of the room will redistribute if you turn the fan on at a low speed in a clockwise direction.</li> 
</ul> 
<h3>FOR YOUR CAR</h3> 
Drivers should be aware of the health of their car’s components, as each tends to be affected by colder temperatures. 
<ul> 
 <li>Tires — For every 10 degrees the outside air temperature goes down, you lose about 1 PSI of pressure, the <a href="https://www.newsday.com/long-island/transportation/potholes-tires-danger-cost-tzgdbxve">AAA</a> says. This can be dangerous especially if you drive over a pothole or icy road. Drivers should be sure to regularly check their tires and fill them with air as needed throughout the season.</li> 
 <li>When driving in perilous weather,&nbsp;consider bringing along a collapsible shovel, ice scraper and broom, phone charger, first-aid kid and other emergency supplies in case you get stuck.</li> 
 <li>Get&nbsp;your battery checked before winter, especially if you had any issues that required you to jump start it during the summer.</li> 
 <li>Be sure to clear snow from the top of your vehicle. Wind and motion can cause it to break off and hit other cars, creating dangerous “flying snow,” police say.</li> 
</ul>

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Coping with the cold: How to protect your pipes, pets and yourself

How to protect your pipes, pets and yourself when temps turn frigid

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AIAudio - Coping with the cold: How to protect your pipes, pets and yourself

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John Asbury

While Long Islanders are no strangers to snow, a storm is expected to drop more than a foot of it this weekend — and frigid conditions,&nbsp;starting Friday, are forecast to&nbsp;last for several days. 
The National Weather Service warned of "considerable disruption to transportation and daily life Sunday into Monday from heavy snowfall, high snowfall rates, and blowing and drifting snow." 
Officials are offering a few reminders about managing the storm, ranging from travel impact to keeping pets safe. 
<h3>How is travel affected?</h3> 
Officials have warned people to avoid travel. But for those who must, it's wise to check for cancellations&nbsp;and schedule changes.&nbsp; 
Several airlines have offered to waive change fees ahead of the storm in order to reschedule flights in case of widespread cancellations. There were minimal delays and cancellations listed by Thursday afternoon at Kennedy and LaGuardia airports through Saturday. 
The MTA and Long Island Rail Road generally begin&nbsp;reducing service for between 8 to 12 inches of snow, according to the MTA. 
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority has traditionally seen significant suspensions of service or shut down the full system during more than one foot of snow or blizzard conditions. Service may also be interrupted during subzero temperatures. 
The National Weather Service advised those who must drive&nbsp;to consider taking a winter storm kit in case a vehicle gets stuck or stranded. Supplies may include tire chains, jumper cables, a flashlight, a shovel, blankets and extra clothing. 
<h3>What about power outages and home heating problems from the storm?</h3> 
 PSEG Long Island officials said the expected powdery snow shouldn't threaten electrical systems and&nbsp;the storm is not currently predicted to bring ice accumulations seen in other parts of the country, leading to downed branches onto power lines. 
Experts said homeowners should prevent frozen pipes, including by shutting off outside water valves and insulating pipes.&nbsp;Firefighters also warn to never plug space heaters into extension cords, which can burst into flames. 
<h3>What about pets?&nbsp;</h3> 
While some dogs love the snow, veterinarians said in general, it’s best to keep cats and dogs inside and limit exposure to the cold. 
Pet owners should check their dogs’ paws for signs&nbsp;of frost bite, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Pets can also be dressed in a sweater or parka to stay warm outside. 
Veterinarians also warn drivers to bang on their car hoods and take precautions before starting their cars in case cats or other small animals have taken refuge&nbsp;in a warm&nbsp;engine block. 
Those taking care of feral cats who live outside should make sure they have a covered dry shelter with straw inside, placed away from the wind and blowing snow. If possible, leave a garage or insulated shed open where they can come in and be protected during the storm.

LIPREP260123

Prepping for the storm: How to handle the snow, frigid temps coming to LI

How can Long Islanders prepare for the coming storm?

AIAudio - Prepping for the storm: How to handle the snow, frigid temps coming to LI


AIAudio - Prepping for the storm: How to handle the snow, frigid temps coming to LI

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When snow is headed our way, all thoughts turn instantly to the basics: Is there enough food in the house? Will my car be plowed in? How hard will it be to shovel? Where is that shovel, anyway? 
A prediction of snow is a reminder to prepare your home, your vehicle and yourself by brushing up on safety tips. 
<h3>Bundle up smartly</h3> 
Planning physical activity outdoors, such as shoveling snow or salting a walkway? Layers are your friend. 
Start with a base layer, meaning one that’s next to your skin and designed to wick moisture. Wicking materials include synthetics like polyester and nylon and natural fibers like silk and merino wool all of which keep the skin dry and reduce&nbsp;the chances for hypothermia or becoming chilled. On top of the base layer put on an insulating layer such as a sweater or fleece and an outer shell to protect from snow. Of course, finish it all off with a hat, gloves, thick socks and, ideally, waterproof boots. 
<h3>Prep your vehicle</h3> 
If driving is a must, stock up with stuff needed in case you get stranded on the road: blankets, extra water, jumper cables, chains, warm clothes, snacks and a first-aid kit. For extra protection in the event tires get stuck in snow, have cat litter or sand at the ready for better ground traction. Also, consider a phone charging cable and portable battery for electronics. The CDC recommends: "Keep the gas tank near full to help avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines." 
<h3>Do warm-ups before shoveling</h3> 
Jumping jacks, standing squats, lunges and other exercises can help avoid injury. When shoveling, bend at the knee and lift with the legs, not the back. Don’t let snow pile up, since the more there is, the harder it is to clear. And seek medical help if experiencing persistent shortness of breath, palpitations, chest pressure or other signs of overexertion. 
<h3>Tidy up the yard</h3> 
Before snowfall hits, check for wayward tree branches that could&nbsp;fall onto your house. Use caution and avoid taking unnecessary risks. If it looks like a complicated job, consider calling in a professional, and if it’s too late for this storm, remove precarious branches for next time. 
<h3>Address, avoid frozen pipes</h3> 
For frozen pipes, turn off the water that flows to the outside, then drain what remains from the outside spigot. If you don’t plan to be home during the storm, leave the heat on anyway, to a temperature no lower than 55 degrees. "Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to un-insulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls," according to online advice from State Farm insurance. 
<h3>Get snow removal equipment ready</h3> 
Prep equipment before it’s needed, not the morning after the snowstorm. As early as possible, check the snowblower, start it up and run it for a bit. Position tools where needed, such as shovels by the door. Put ice melt down. Leave the snowblower where it can be easily moved. 
<h3>Make sure smoke, CO2 detectors are working</h3> 
Check the batteries on smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors. It's always a good idea to check monthly, but particularly when using a wood stove, fireplace or kerosene heater, to make sure the detectors are working. 
<h3>Prepare your pets</h3> 
Bring your pets indoors, and if that’s not possible, be sure to provide adequate shelter. 
SOURCES: Weather.com, REI, AAA Northeast, NYU Langone, Northwell Health, Stony Brook University, USA Today, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Newsday archives 
Newsday’s Matthew Chayes contributed to this story.&nbsp;

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Snowstorm safety tips: How to prepare your home, your vehicle and yourself this winter

Follow these tips to prepare and stay safe for LI snowstorms

AIAudio - Snowstorm safety tips: How to prepare your home, your vehicle and yourself this winter


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How to prepare for snow and extreme cold weather

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