Onslow County emergency management urges winter driving, generator and fireplace safety

Stacy Miles of Onslow County Emergency Management urged residents to prioritize road and home safety as Eastern North Carolina enters its winter months. Miles said the county sees many crashes on icy or snowy roads and advised motorists to "leave early" — "if it takes you 30 minutes to get there, leave 45 minutes early" — reduce speed below posted limits on slick surfaces, and keep tires in good condition.

Miles also recommended carrying traction aids (kitty litter, sand or salt) and blankets in vehicles in case of a breakdown, and warned that wet roads can freeze during sudden temperature drops. At home, she urged residents to check portable generators ahead of need, store fuel safely away from living areas, and operate generators outside and away from windows and A/C units to avoid carbon monoxide risks.

On fireplace safety, Miles advised having gas fireplaces serviced professionally and arranging chimney sweeps for wood-burning units, and to avoid burning pressure-treated wood or materials with heavy creosote buildup. She also cautioned about slips and falls on icy driveways and stairs and encouraged appropriate footwear and extra caution.

For up-to-date forecasts and local guidance, Miles pointed viewers to the National Weather Service winter-weather pages and the Onslow County Emergency Services winter-weather page, which includes county-specific preparedness information.

The advice is aimed at reducing preventable roadway crashes, power-related hazards and home injuries during the next several wintry months in Onslow County.