Hey neighbor,

This isn't our usual newsletter — but this is important. I know many native Georgians hardly feel the need to prepare when there is a state wide weather advisory, however, I always carry a “JUST IN CASE MENTALITY” so i hope this helps.

A potentially dangerous winter storm is heading our way this weekend (Saturday, January 24 through Sunday, January 25), and forecasters are warning that it could bring significant ice accumulation, snow, power outages, and hazardous travel conditions across Gwinnett County.

The FOX 5 Storm Team has declared Saturday and Sunday Storm Alert Days, and Governor Brian Kemp is already mobilizing state resources. This storm is expected to impact the region from Thursday night into Monday morning, with dangerous travel conditions and the potential for prolonged, widespread power outages.

The bottom line: Now is the time to prepare. Don't wait until Friday — stores will be packed and shelves will be empty.

I want to help you get ready, so today I'm sharing:

✅ The top 3 resources you should stock up on (and where to find them locally or online)

✅ 3 classic board games to keep your family entertained if you lose power

✅ Official resources from Gwinnett County and the State of Georgia

Let's make sure you and your family are safe, prepared, and ready to ride this out together.

1. WATER & NON-PERISHABLE FOOD

What you need: At least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 3 days, plus shelf-stable food that doesn't require cooking (canned goods, crackers, peanut butter, granola bars, cereal, dried fruit).

Where to find it locally:

Amazon (2-day shipping if you order NOW):

Pro tip: Don't forget pet food and any prescription medications you might need. Pharmacies could be closed or inaccessible during the storm.

2. FLASHLIGHTS, BATTERIES & ALTERNATIVE LIGHT SOURCES

What you need: LED flashlights (one per person), extra batteries (AA, AAA, D), battery-powered or hand-crank radio, and portable phone chargers.

Where to find it locally:

Amazon (order NOW for delivery before Friday):

CRITICAL SAFETY NOTE: Never use candles during a power outage due to fire risk. Use flashlights and battery-powered lanterns only.

3. SPACE HEATERS & WAYS TO STAY WARM

What you need: Electric space heaters (with automatic shut-off), extra blankets, sleeping bags, warm clothing layers, and hand/foot warmers.

Where to find it locally:

Amazon (order TODAY):

CRITICAL SAFETY NOTES:

If the power goes out and you're stuck inside for a couple of days, you'll want something to keep everyone busy. Here are three classic board game suggestions:

FOR ADULTS: Scrabble

The classic word game that never gets old. Requires no electricity, keeps your brain sharp, and can last for hours. Perfect for couples or small groups who want something strategic and engaging.

Where to find it: Target, Walmart, Barnes & Noble, Amazon

FOR YOUNG KIDS: Candy Land

Simple, colorful, and perfect for kids ages 3-8. No reading required, and it's quick enough to play multiple rounds without anyone getting bored. A staple for families with little ones.

Where to find it: Target, Walmart, Amazon

FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY: Ticket to Ride

This modern classic is easy to learn, fun for all ages (8+), and strikes the perfect balance between strategy and simplicity. Players collect train cards and build routes across the map — it's engaging for adults without being too complicated for kids.

Where to find it: Target, Barnes & Noble, local game stores, Amazon

Other great family options: Uno, Monopoly Deal (card game version, faster than regular Monopoly), Apples to Apples, Clue

Gwinnett County Emergency Management

📞 770-513-5600

📧 [email protected]

🌐 gwinnettcounty.com/emergencymanagement

Gwinnett County Emergency Management is monitoring the storm and coordinating with state agencies. They provide emergency alerts, weather updates, and disaster response coordination.

How to stay informed:

Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA)

🌐 gema.georgia.gov/winter

Governor Brian Kemp has activated state resources and is closely monitoring this storm. GEMA is coordinating with local officials to ensure Georgians have what they need.

Governor Kemp's message to Georgians:"I'm asking all Georgians to help [first responders] do their jobs by limiting travel as much as possible in the coming days. Hazardous conditions, including ice and snow, can develop quickly and make travel very dangerous. Plan ahead and stay tuned to updates from state and local officials to ensure you and your loved ones remain safe."

Key state resources:

DO: ✅ Fill your gas tank NOW

✅ Charge all phones, tablets, and portable chargers

✅ Let faucets drip slightly during freezing temps to prevent pipes from bursting

✅ Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air reach pipes

✅ Bring pets indoors

✅ Check on elderly neighbors before the storm hits

DON'T: ❌ Travel unless absolutely necessary

❌ Use generators, grills, or camp stoves indoors (carbon monoxide poisoning)

❌ Overload electrical outlets with space heaters

❌ Call 911 to report power outages (call your utility company instead)

❌ Touch downed power lines — always assume they're live

If you know someone in Gwinnett who might not see this — especially elderly neighbors or families with young kids — please forward this email to them. We take care of each other in this community, and making sure everyone is prepared could literally save lives.

Stay safe, stay warm, and stay inside this weekend, neighbor. We'll get through this together.

— Gus

Your Gwinnett Neighbor

P.S. If you lose power, remember: your refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours if you keep the door closed. Your freezer will keep food frozen for about 48 hours if it's full (24 hours if it's half full). Plan accordingly.