This article originally appeared on wric.com

As winter weather makes its way to Central Virginia, Richmond organizations are telling you how to prepare for the storm.

On Wednesday, Feb. 19, a snowstorm is set to hit Central Virginia, bringing heavy snowfall with it.

First responders at the Richmond Ambulance Authority said road conditions and people with medical issues are the biggest things they watch out for during snowstorms.

Paramedics see high call volumes of residents with emergencies like hypothermia, dehydration and frostbite. They recommend staying inside and increasing fluid intake to avoid dire situations.

It’s recommended that Virginians avoid traveling during the storm. Lieutenant Christy Pritt said anyone who does need to travel should dress appropriately and make sure their car is sound for the weather.

“Snow tires are a big one, and chains,” Pritt said. “Drive slowly, increase your stopping distances — make sure you have lots of cushion between you and other vehicles and objects. Pay attention ahead so you can identify hazards that are further up. Use sand and salt on any sidewalks or areas that will also assist us in responding to your house.”

Pritt said having an emergency kit in your car with blankets, jumper cables, water and food are important in case you get stranded.

Meanwhile, when you’re inside during that cold winter storm, it’s important to make sure your heating system is working.

Hungerford Heating and Cooling Operations Manager Eric Walker said that, out of the 100 calls they get per week, half of them deal with customers not keeping systems clean.

He said routine maintenance is important, especially before big weather events — and that goes for indoor and outdoor units.

Walker said failure to be prepared can lead to dirty filters and ultimately lack of heat running through your home.

“It can affect your airflow that will run up and cause your compressor, especially with a heat pump,” Walker said. “In our climate, the heat pumps won’t be able to perform like they’re supposed to. You don’t want to be waking up with 12 inches of snow and your unit has locked itself out from a dirty air flow with … dirty filters restricting that airflow.”

Walker said homeowners should clean their air filters at least once a month. They’re also available to buy at Home Depot, Lowe’s or any local hardware store.