Team Kirtland reminded of severe weather notifications, protections Published Nov. 30, 2012 By 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs KIRTLAND AFB, N.M. -- Winter brings the possibility of extremely cold conditions and severe weather. Based on local conditions, the installation commander may authorize base closure, delayed reporting and/or early release for employees. Employees should monitor local television and radio stations as well as the Kirtland AFB Facebook page and Twitter feed for weather-related reporting instructions. Team Kirtland uses multiple means of notification for delayed reporting, mission-essential personnel only reporting, and/or early release of non-essential personnel due to severe weather or hazardous driving conditions. Initial notification is sent via the AtHoc System from the Command Post. AtHoc allows individuals to input personal information, such as home or cell phone numbers and email addresses, on how to be contacted after hours. Notifications can include severe weather watches or warnings, delayed reporting and recalls. The system has the capability to notify members via email, desktop pop-up, text message, and work, home or cell phones. Contact a unit computer support administrator for instructions on how to access AtHoc. The Snow Line, 853-7669, is updated with current information. The Kirtland AFB Straight Talk Line, 846-4238, is updated with current information. Emails are sent to all valid Kirtland Air Force Base email accounts with updated information. Local television and radio stations are notified of delayed reporting procedures. Information about area road closures is available by accessing the City of Albuquerque website at http://www.cabq.gov/ and the New Mexico Department of Transportation at http://nmroads.com/. The NM DOT also updates its "NMRoads" smartphone app, available as a download for mobile devices at http://dot.state.nm.us/en/ITS.html. For people who live on base, Kirtland Family Housing, LLC will make notifications and provide information for those homes using its "One Call" and other communication methods. If the installation commander makes a determination to delay reporting, release employees early, or close the base, supervisors and managers are encouraged to contact their organization's human resources liaison or the Civilian Personnel Section, Employee-Management Relations, for specific questions and time card coding requirements in accordance with applicable rules and regulations. The following tips will help protect people, pets and property from the most severe cold-weather effects: Personal protection Provide extra attention to infants, the elderly, and people with disabilities Bring pets indoors Dress warmly and in layers Stretch before shoveling snow or other physical activity If you must be outside, cover your mouth to protect the lungs Avoid overexertion Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia Keep dry Household protection Clean/replace air filters in heating system Assemble a disaster supplies kit Insulate walls and attic Caulk and weather strip doors and windows Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside Have safe emergency heating equipment available Install/check smoke detectors Wrap water pipes to keep them from freezing Lower the thermostat and close off unused rooms Know how to shut off water valves Allow inside faucets to drip (especially those with lines prone to freezing) Disconnect hoses from outside water faucets Insulate outside water faucets