KNOXVILLE - "Based on forecasting from the National Weather Service, we’re expecting winter weather this weekend, including snow, freezing rain, and ice," says Knoxville-Knox County Emergency Management Agency Operations Office, Sarah DeLozier." "Current forecasting predicts storm conditions starting Saturday mid-day continuing through Sunday afternoon."

The Knoxville-Knox County Office of Housing Stability announced a warming center at Eternal Life Harvest Center will be open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings to help get those without shelter out of the cold weather. ReLaunch at 409 N Broadway is currently a seasonal shelter, open every night regardless of temperature and Knox Area Rescue Ministries is opening all available capacity. Knoxville Area Transit is providing free bus rides to warming centers every evening, dependent on their operational hours.

Emergency services personnel are preparing to support the community through this weather event. We ask that community members also take steps to prepare. Snow and ice-covered roads can be treacherous. Adjust plans and limit travel.

Extended exposure to freezing temperatures can be dangerous. Remember to dress in layers and limit time outside. Check on your family, friends, and neighbors to make sure they have access to a warm space especially in case of a power outage. Bring pets inside.

A few safety tips for winter weather include –

• Keep an emergency kit on hand, including a flashlight, blanket, jumper cables, bottles water, nonperishable food, first aid kit, battery powered radio, backup/battery charger, warm clothes and shoes. Keep a full tank of gas.
• Take it slow if you must drive in icy and snowy conditions– slower speed, slower acceleration, slower steering, and slower braking can help you maintain control of the vehicle.

• When removing snow
-- Be considerate to avoid blocking accessible parking spaces, access ramps, or sidewalks.
-- Be cautious not to overexert yourself. Extra exertion of shoveling snow, especially in cold temperatures, can lead to injuries and dangerous heart issues.
• Avoid traveling on snow-covered or icy roads if possible.
• Use caution on sidewalks and walkways which can be treacherous in icy conditions.
• Monitor local media and social media for weather and safety updates.

The risk of fire and carbon monoxide exposure increases in the winter –

• Make sure space heaters have an auto shut-off in case they tip over.
• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from a fireplace, wood stove, or space heater.
• Keep generators outside at least 20 feet away from doors, windows, and vents to avoid accidental CO poisoning.
• NEVER use a generator, camp stove, charcoal grill, gasoline or propane heater indoors.
• NEVER heat a home by using the stovetop or oven.
• Install a carbon monoxide alarm in your home and test it regularly.

More info: https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather

About Knoxville-Knox County Emergency Management Agency (KEMA) — KEMA serves as the primary coordinating agency for local efforts to prepare for and respond to large-scale emergencies and disasters.

About the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) — During disasters and major emergencies KEMA activates and leads the Emergency Operations Center, which is the central point of coordination and support for the local government response. EOC staffing is driven by the emergency response needs and includes representatives from the City and County, local law enforcement, fire, rescue and EMS agencies. The EOC also includes partners and supporting agencies who represent public health, healthcare, non-government organizations (NGOs), nonprofits, State and Federal agencies, emergency communications, utilities, public works, and others.

Knox County Alerts – Knox County Alerts allows community members to receive emergency alerts by opting in. Community members can select what type of alerts they would like to receive and how they would like to receive them. Sgn up at knoxcounty.org/alert.