With the prediction of falling temperatures and potential freezing rain this weekend in our region, Cherokee County Sheriff David Groves reminds residents of these important winter weather tips and suggestions:

• Try to limit the amount of time outside in the cold
• Wear plenty of layers of clothing, including socks, gloves, appropriate shoes and hats
• Work slowly when doing outside chores
• Use rock salt on icy walkways and steps
• Keep a charged phone with you and let someone know when you're traveling and the route you plan to take
• Check on elderly family and neighbors
• Make sure your tires are properly inflated
• Keep bottled water and a blanket in your vehicle in case you stall or go into a ditch
• Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. Plan on roadways being impassable and power outages.  Ensure you have adequate prescriptions, food and other necessities.

"In addition to the suggestions above, it's important to remember space heaters can be dangerous.  Almost every year, our local firefighters respond to fires caused by space heaters when the temperatures dip.  If you choose to use one, make sure it is at least three feet away from anything flammable including clothing, plug them in directly to the wall outlet rather than a power strip and turn it off before leaving the room or planning to fall asleep," concluded Sheriff Groves