As severe weather continues to blast many parts of the country, many people still need to spend time outdoors in the winter working, traveling or enjoying winter sports. Outdoor activities can expose you to several safety hazards, but follow these 7 steps to prepare for the worst.
- Wear appropriate outdoor gear: layers of light, warm clothing; mittens; hats; scarves and waterproof boots.
- Sprinkle cat litter or sand on icy patches.
- Learn safety precautions to follow when outdoors:
- Be aware of the wind chill factor.
- Work slowly when completing outside tasks.
- Take a buddy and an emergency kit when you are participating in outdoor recreation.
- Carry a cell phone.
- Protect your family from carbon monoxide.
- Keep grills, camp stoves and generators out of the house, basement and garage.
- Locate generators at least 20 feet from the house.
- Leave your home immediately if the CO detector sounds and call 911.
- Avoid traveling when the weather service has issued advisories.
- If you must travel, inform a friend, relative or colleague of your proposed route and expected time of arrival.
- Follow these safety rules if you become stranded in your car.
- Stay with your car unless safety is no more than 100 yards away, but continue to move arms and legs.
- Stay visible by putting bright cloth on the antenna, turning on the inside overhead light (when engine is running), and raising the hood when snow stops falling.
- Run the engine and heater only 10 minutes every hour.
- Keep a downwind window open.
- Make sure the tailpipe is not blocked.
Above all, be prepared to check on family and neighbours who are especially at risk from cold weather hazards: young children, older adults and the chronically ill. If you have pets, bring them inside. If you cannot bring them inside, provide adequate, warm shelter and unfrozen water to drink. For more tips from the CDC, visit their website: www.cdc.gov