Winter Safety Tips
Below are a few reminders about Winter Safety-
Hope everyone travels safe!
When driving:
- Have your vehicle fully checked and winterized ahead of time. Make sure you have enough gas, antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid and oil.
- If winter storm conditions exist and you must go out, let someone know your route and predicted travel time. Arrange with someone that you will call and let know you have arrived safely.
- Give yourself extra time to travel so you do not have to rush.
Supplies to keep in your vehicle:
- Blankets/sleeping bags
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Knife
- High calorie, non-perishable food
- A smaller can and water-proof matches to melt snow for drinking water
- Sand or cat litter
- Shovel
- Windshield scraper
- Tool kit
- Tow rope
- Jumper cables
- Water container
- Compass
- Road maps
If you become stranded:
- Stay in your vehicle
- Run the motor for only ten minutes each hour.
- Crack the windows for fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Make sure the exhaust pipe is cleared
- Exercise to keep warm
In the home:
Supplies to have on hand and in good working condition:
- Flashlight
- Battery powered radio
- Extra blankets
- Extra food, water, medicine, and baby items
- First aid supplies
- Heating fuel (propane, kerosene, fuel oil, etc...), if appropriate
- Emergency heating source
- Fire extinguisher and smoke detector
If the the heat goes off:
- Close off unneeded rooms.
- Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors to prevent drafts .
- Cover windows at night to keep heat in.
When dressing:
- Wear several layers of lightweight clothing rather than one layer of a heavy garment.
- Cover your head. As much as 50% of your body heat is lost through your head!
- Cover exposed skin (face, hands) to protect against frostbite.
- Wear waterproof boots or sturdy shoes with good traction to prevent slipping.
When shoveling:
- Use a proper snow shovel and lift with your legs not your back.
For your health:
- Make sure you eat and drink properly. Food provides the body with energy and heat; fluids prevent dehydration.
- Wear layers of loose-fitting, light-weight, warm clothing to maintain body heat.
May you have a Happy and Safe Holiday Season!
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