Happy Winter! Winter Safety Advice

Another winter: snow, cold, ice, slipping, sliding and hopefully, not falling. However we define it, winter is here! While we got off fairly easily last winter, it doesn’t look like it will be as mild this year. Being prepared for storms and power outages can add some measure of comfort and peace of mind to the approaching holidays. Here are a few tips to help you make it through these winter days:

• Stay off the roads if the weather is bad. Sounds like a no-brainer, doesn’t it, but all too often we end up driving when we shouldn’t. If a storm warning has been issued, please stay home.
• You may want to consider adding a sweater or dressing in layers for added warmth and keep a blanket in the car in case you get stuck.
• If your power goes out, have a plan for what needs to be done. If you use a generator for heat, be careful. Use a generator outside your home, not inside, and keep it at least 20 feet from windows, doors and attached garages.
• Should the power go out, unplug any unnecessary electrical devices. Power surges when the power comes back on can destroy them.
• Make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors on each floor of your home. Carbon monoxide has no odor or color so it’s difficult to notice.
• If you do use a gas powered generator, let it cool completely before refueling.
• If the temperature drops and your power goes out, turn your faucets on to drip to keep pipes from freezing.
• If you have to go outside, dress appropriately and limit your time outdoors.
• Watch for signs of frostbite (numbness in fingers or toes, white or grayish-yellow skin, and firm or waxy skin) and hypothermia (shivering, exhaustion, confusion, memory loss, slurred speech or drowsiness).

For more information, go to: Ready.gov/winter-weather