Winter Weather Safety Tips
Posted on: February 10, 2014Categories: LiveWell 24/7As winter storm systems are scheduled to collide in the Carolinas, we’re reminded that winter weather is still upon us. If you find yourself stuck in the snow or ice over the next few days, use the following preparedness tips to stay safe.
If you do get stuck in the snow:
- Stay with the car. Do not try to walk to safety.
- Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna to make your vehicle visible.
- Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour.
- Keep one window away from the blowing wind slightly open to let in air.
If the roads are too slick, the best option is to stay home and wait for the conditions to clear. Below are several tips to maximize your safety while waiting out a winter storm at home:
- Prevent frozen pipes – when the weather is very cold outside, open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around water pipes. Let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe – even at a trickle – helps prevent pipes from freezing.
- Keep the thermostat set to a consistent temperature.
- Use a sturdy fire screen around fireplaces when in use. Burn only wood – never burn paper or pine boughs.
- Use generators correctly –never operate a generator inside your home, including the basement or garage. Do not hook up a generator directly to your home’s wiring. The safest thing to do is to connect the equipment you want to power directly to the outlets on the generator.
- Check smoke alarms once a month by pressing the test button and replacing batteries as necessary.
- Don’t overload your electrical outlets.
Winter weather can disrupt our weekly schedule and cause unexpected inconveniences. Follow these simple tips to keep you and your family safe from the dangers associated with snow and ice conditions.
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