Stay Safe and Prepared this Winter
January 13, 2025 | Tags:
Winter weather conditions can create hazardous situations. The best way to avoid any mishaps this winter weather season is to stay safe by being prepared.
Prepare Your Car
- Check the air pressure in your tires and ensure each tire has enough tread to drive safely through the snow. Rotate or replace your tires if necessary.
- Check your antifreeze levels and ensure your radiator system works properly.
- Keep your gas tank full to prevent fuel lines from freezing and to ensure you have a way to keep your vehicle running for warmth in the rare case you become stranded.
- Switch your windshield wiper fluid to a wintertime solution.
- Keep an emergency kit in your car including a first-aid kit, water, snacks, blankets, batteries and a portable cell phone charger.
Prepare Your Home
- Ensure your heating systems are working properly.
- Review the manufacturer’s instructions and take note of safety precautions on any wood stoves, fireplaces or space heaters before use.
- Check the batteries in your emergency detection devices, such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Keep your generator outside at least 20 feet away from doors, windows and vents.
- Clean out chimneys and fireplaces before use.
- Pack extra blankets and warm clothing.
- Stock up on non-perishable foods, medicines and first aid supplies.
- Sprinkle sand or cat litter on ice patches in your driveway to avoid slips.
Prepare Your Family
- Make sure each member of your family is properly bundled up before heading out in the cold. This includes hats, gloves, scarves, thick socks, boots, etc.
- When participating in outdoor activities, check the air temperature and wind chill beforehand.
- Always keep a charged cell phone with you when venturing outside and avoid going out by yourself unless necessary.
- Keep pets indoors whenever possible.
- Be prepared for an emergency and know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
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Sources: CDC