Marine Corps Base Quantico --
Marine Corps Base Quantico residents and commuters will have
to brace for another bitter cold winter, according to Old Farmers’ Almanac,
which predicts “polar vortex” conditions this season.
For those who are new to Quantico, here are several
precautions that can help get ahead of this upcoming season. The first step to
sign up for the base mass notification system, which disseminates pertinent
information quickly in the event of an emergency. Alert messages are dispersed
via email, text, computer pop-ups and phone calls.
In addition, Quantico commuters should get to know the
closures and delay structure, which is communicated through a color-coded
system. Code Green indicates the base is open on time; Code Yellow means the
base will open on time, but reasonable delays in arrival are excused and unscheduled
leave is authorized; Code Blue indicates the base will open at a specified,
delayed hour and a Code Red means the base is closed for non-essential
personnel. The current weather code status can be found at www.quantico.marines.mil/Advisories.aspx
as well as the official Marine Corps Base Quantico Facebook page.
Another point to consider, particularly for parents, is
whether the on-base schools are open during inclement weather. Since DoDea
schools at Quantico have different weather statuses, communication between the
parents and school is vital said, Carol M. Shelton, base emergency planner for
Quantico Operations Division. However, she said the school set up their own
alert systems with parents.
Additionally, there are also basic supplies that everyone
should have on hand, according to www.ready.gov,
including eco-friendly alternatives to rock salt, sand to improve traction,
shovels, a NOAA Weather Radio and an emergency kit for the car. The site also
recommends winterizing a car with the
following items: windshield scraper and small broom, flashlight, battery
powered radio, extra batteries, water, snack food, matches, extra warm
clothing, a first aid kit, necessary medications, blankets, booster cables, emergency
flares and a fluorescent distress flag.
Additionally, Shelton recommends avoiding driving in severe
weather, if possible.
“Get where you need to be before the weather gets bad,” she
said. “It’s always best to stay off the roads during winter storms, because
most traffic crashes happen within the first two hours after a storm starts.”
However, most importantly, Shelton urges military members
and civilians to develop a family emergency plan. If a family can’t come home
because of extreme weather, they need a plan to reunite with their family or
reach out to a designated friend or relative. Families can learn more about
making a plan at www.readyvirginia.gov.