Expectant moms urged to be storm ready

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- Officials are warning residents of Southern New England to stay off the roads as a blizzard warning is in effect for the area.

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But what about women who are expecting a little bundle of joy to arrive Friday night or Saturday morning?

"We always have a high number of women who are anticipating delivery, so this weekend will be no different," said Medical Director of Inpatient Obstetrics at Women & Infants Hospital, Dr. James O'Brien, MD.

Dr. O'Brien urges any potential patients to make the necessary arrangements to get the hospital in the event of a blizzard baby.

"We're telling patients that if they live remotely from the hospital and have family members or friends who are in closer proximity, to consider coming and staying with those family or friends through the course of the storm," he said.

Even though births can be a joyous occasion, Dr. O'Brien asks only those giving birth and their significant others to come to the hospital and that all other family members should remain at home, especially in these weather conditions.

Health officials are also urging patients to be sure they have any medications they may need before the possibility of getting snowed in becomes a reality.