Stay ready for cold weather

Oklahoma will welcome in the new year with a blast of winter weather, and authorities say residents should be prepared for possible power outages and travel disruptions.

Cleveland County Sheriff Joe Lester says residents should have a blanket, candles, matches, flashlights, batteries, an emergency radio, food and bottled water accessible.

Travelers should check the forecast either by television or phone and fill the vehicle’s gas tank with plenty of fuel.

Tires need to be inflated to the appropriate levels. Keep an ice scraper and set of jumper cables in the vehicle. And if possible, pack a cellphone charger that can be used in the cigarette lighter.

If the area does receive frozen precipitation, Lester says residents should stay home and not travel unless it’s absolutely necessary.