Winter Weather Worries: Preventing Catastrophe in Severe Conditions

Winter Weather Worries: Preventing Catastrophe in Severe Conditions

When severe winter weather strikes, it is prudent to take the necessary precautions in order to ensure your family’s safety. There are many ways to stay safe and warm during a hard winter storm.

Tip1: Stay indoors and off the roads: The most important tip is to stay indoors during a storm. Unless absolutely necessary, stay off the roads. If you must drive, do not travel alone, tell others where you are going, the route you will take, and stay on the main roads and avoid back road shortcuts.

Tip 2: Snow Removal Safety: More than 100 U.S. citizens die each year shoveling snow. To remove snow and ice safely, avoid overexertion by taking breaks, and push the snow instead of lifting it. By taking breaks, you can also reduce the risk of frostbite. Keep clothing dry and cover any exposed skin so as to not get hypothermia and dress in layers of lightweight clothing as well as waterproof, insulated boots. Don’t be afraid to hire a professional in extreme situations or enlist the help of friends and neighbors.

Tip 3: Prepare your home in advance of the season. Keep your house warm by insulating your home by installing storm windows or cover them in plastic from the inside. Conserve fuel and be sure that any heating equipment is clean and inspected so as to not cause carbon monoxide poisoning or other dangers such as house fires.

Tip 4: Keeping your pets safe: Bring your pets indoors and ensure their warmth as well as give them plenty of water and food.

Tip 5: Stay updated: Listen to the radio or the TV to keep up to date on the storm and other weather conditions. A battery powered radio may be helpful in the case of power outages. Limit cell phone use and have your phone fully charged in case of an emergency.

Tip 6: Power Outages: If the power goes out, use any other battery operated flashlight or candles as a light source. With candles, use caution and keep them away from anything flammable. Root candle’s travel tins are great for taking with you on the go as they are convenient and durable. Root’s Queen Bee Jar candles are excellent for those long hours without power as they can burn for up to 130 hours!

Severe weather can be dangerous and it is prudent to take any necessary precautions to ensure your family, neighbors, and friends keep safe and warm.