With temperatures dropping and snow accumulating remember to use these helpful tips to keep you and your loved ones safe, happy, and healthy during the winter months.
Winter Travel Safety
If possible refrain from driving during an extreme winter weather event, but if you must drive remember these tips:
- Increase your following distance
- Don’t pass or tailgate snow plows
- Make sure everyone keeps their seatbelt on and avoid distractions
- Winterize your vehicle with antifreeze, winter tires, proper windshield wipers, and ice removal tool
- Walk and drive carefully on icy roads and sidewalks
- Refrain from letting your vehicle tank run below ½
- Turn on headlights in snow or harsh weather conditions
- Slow down before exiting the highway, ramps may have icy patches
- Before driving let someone know your route or where you are going just in case you get stuck it will be easier to be found
Winter Safety Tips for Outdoors
With the dangerous conditions and arctic cold weather, it’s best to be prepared when faced with the outdoors:
- Frostbite and hypothermia is a real concern with temperatures turning negative
- When shoveling take frequent breaks and take lighter loads
- Stay dry, wet clothes make you lose body heat
- Dress in several layers of clothing
- Wear insulated waterproof boots to keep your feet warm and dry and to maintain balance on ice
- Keep garage closed (especially if the garage is attached to the house)
- Disconnect all outdoor garden hoses and drain the remaining water
You can never be over prepared when it comes to safety. Check out American Red Cross for more winter weather safety tips.