Be Prepared for Winter
by Meredith Keymel

Central New York winters can be brutal, but with a little preparation, they don't have to be. Here are a few safety tips to keep you out of the cold:

Be warm …

• Keep extra blankets around.
• Have enough warm clothing for each person in the household (mittens, heavy coats, hats & waterproof boots).
• Remove wet clothing immediately after coming inside. Replace with warm, dry clothing and wrap up in a blanket.
• Drink warm liquids such as soup or tea to raise or maintain body temperature.

Be safe, keep a Disaster Supplies Kit stocked with…

• First aid kit & necessary medications.
• Flashlight, battery-powered NOAA Weather radio & extra batteries.
• Canned food & can opener.
• Bottled water (at least 3 gallons per person).
• Extra winter clothing (boots, mittens, hats, etc.)
• Keep a Disaster Supplies Kit in the car, too.
• Winterize your car before winter hits (put on snow tires, fill anti-freeze, etc.)

Be informed…

• Listen to your local radio & TV stations for weather updates and storm information.

Know the difference:

• a winter storm WATCH means that a storm is possible in your area.
  • a winter storm WARNING means that a storm is on its way.
  • a blizzard WARNING means strong winds, blinding wind-driven snow and dangerous wind chill are expected. STAY INDOORS!
• If a Winter Storm WATCH is issued:
  • continue checking weather for updates.
  • avoid unnecessary travel.
• If a Winter Storm WARNING is issued:
  • stay indoors
  • -wear several light layers of clothing as opposed to one heavy layer if you MUST go outside, wear hats and mittens to preserve body heat, and cover mouth to protect lungs.
  • use caution on snowy/icy sidewalks.
  • avoid travel at all costs, but if you must: keep Disaster Supplies Kit in trunk, keep gas tank full and fuel line from freezing, and tell others of your destination, route and expected arrival time.

Be smart if stranded…

• Stay with the car. DO NOT walk to safety.
• Tie brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to antenna for rescuers to see.
• Start car and use heater for 10 minutes every hour. Keep exhaust pipe clear so fumes won't back up.
• Keep overhead light on when engine is running, so you can be seen.
• Move arms & legs to keep blood circulating and to stay warm.
• Let air in by slightly opening one window away from blowing wind.

Be responsible after the storm…

• Continue listening for weather updates and instructions. Conditions may be unsafe even after the storm.
• Help neighbors who may require special assistance--infants, the elderly and people with disabilities.
• Avoid driving & other travel until conditions improve.
• Be careful when shoveling snow. Avoid overexertion by taking frequent breaks. The leading cause of death during winter is heart attack due to shoveling heavy snow.
• Be prepared when going outside. Dress appropriately and don't stay out too long.