Winter storms and below-freezing temperatures present dangers that normally are not a concern during the rest of the year. During winter weather, preparing for the unexpected can be a matter of life and death. Be aware of the potential pitfalls that can occur in the winter and know what to do if you should encounter any of them.
Prevent Hypothermia and Frostbite
When going out in the winter, dress in warm layers. For example, layer a long-sleeved shirt, a sweater and a winter coat. Wear a hat or a hood, because you can lose a lot of heat through your uncovered head. Carry extra clothing with you so you can change out of wet clothing quickly. Remaining in wet clothing in cold temperatures is a risk factor for hypothermia, which occurs when your body temperature drops. Protect your ears, fingers and toes from frostbite by covering them with a hat, gloves or mittens, socks and dry shoes or boots.
Car Kit
If your car breaks down or runs out of gas in the winter, you are at risk of getting very cold and developing hypothermia. Before the cold weather hits, assemble an emergency kit to keep in your car should the worst happen, suggests "Road & Travel Magazine." Bring blankets, an extra coat, a pair of gloves and a hat to keep warm. To alert others that you need help, pack flares, a distress sign and a flashlight. Keep a bag of kitty litter in the trunk to provide traction in case you get stuck in the snow. Be sure that you have a good-quality ice scraper. Pack high-protein snacks, such as nuts, trail mix or a chocolate and peanut candy bar. Carry change for a pay telephone in case your cell phone does not get a signal.
Home Kit
During the winter, you may lose power from falling ice and high winds, or you may be stranded at home for a few days after a large snowstorm. Before the winter weather hits, put together a kit with the items you will need in case of emergency. Always have a supply of prescription medications for family members who need them, in case you can not get to a pharmacy. The North Carolina Elecrtic Cooperatives recommends storing 5 gallons of water per person, and several days' worth of non-perishable food that does not need to be cooked. Make sure to have a non-electric can opener to open any canned foods if the power goes out. Also keep on hand a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, matches, extra blankets and a first-aid kit.
You need to have a way to keep warm in case your furnace or electricity goes out. Alternate heat sources may include firewood and a woodstove, or kerosene and a kerosene heater. Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning by having all fuel-burning appliances checked regularly, using them only as directed and never using grills or gas-powered engines indoors, recommends the Environmental Protection Agency. Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home to alert you of high levels of this deadly gas.
References
- "Road & Travel" Magazine: Essential Winter Emergency Kit Items
- CDC: Winter Weather: Hypothermia
- Washington State Department of Health: How to Prevent Hypothermia
- Environmental Protection Agency: Protect Your Family and Yourself from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
- North Carolina Electric Cooperatives: Winter Survival Kit for Your Home
