We have a wind chill advisory in effect tonight in our listening area, and it’s unlikely to be the last time we see such brutal temperatures before winter ends. I prefer to stay inside and stay warm when it’s this cold out, but that is not always an option. If you’re planning to spend any time outdoors, you might want to brush up on these cold weather safety tips.
Check out these safety tip and stay warm!

When outside:

  • Try to limit exposed skin. This means wearing hat, mittens, and a scarf in addition to a proper coat and boots. If you’re going to be outside for an extended time, consider adding long johns or snowpants.
  • Don’t drink alcohol before or while being outside. Alcohol can inhibit your ability to recognize warning signals from your body that you could be suffering from hypothermia or frostbite.
  • Don’t touch any metal surfaces with your bare hand.

When in the car:

  • Minimize travel when possible.
  • Make sure you vehicle’s fuel tank is at least half full before leaving.
  • Travel main roads, avoid back roads and less-traveled routes.
  • Make sure you have informed someone of your destination, and when you plan to return.
  • Carry a cellphone with you if possible.
  • Have an up-to-date survival kit in your vehicle. It should include: blankets/sleeping bags, kitty litter or sand for traction, flashlights, a battery powered radio, extra batteries, booster cables, distress flags, flares, a shovel or snowscraper, high energy food, water and any vital medications.

For pets:

  • Bring pets indoors. Even animals that are normally “outside” animals should have some form of shelter in subzero temperatures.
  • Make sure animals receive plenty of food and water.
  • Although animals may need to be let out, keep the time as short as possible.
  • When you bring animals in from outside, take a warm, damp cloth and wipe down their paws to remove any salt and ice.

Additionally, please take a few moments and check in on any elderly or shut-in neighbors you might have. If you think you might be suffering from hypothermia or frostbite, seek medial assistance as soon as possible. For more information, go to ready.gov, along with redcross.org and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Let’s stay safe and warm!

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