Winter Weather Safety
It doesn’t take freezing temperatures or three feet of snow to make winter dangerous. Awareness, preparedness and a strong dose of common sense will help you survive even the harshest of winters. 

Usually before Thanksgiving the strong winds and snow flurries known as the “Gales of November” kick up in many parts of the Midwest and Northeast, and in many areas doesn’t let up until mid-February and into March. It’s important to think about safety at these times since harsh weather can create many other emergency situations like house fires and power outages.

Stay Warm at Home
Start with your home when thinking about storm preparedness. You should have the following on hand in your home even if you don’t live in an area that is prone to snowstorms:

• A battery-powered flashlight
• A portable radio
• Canned or dried food
• A can opener
• At least three gallons of water for every person in the house, and also enough food and water for any family pets
• Make sure everyone in the house has a warm coat, gloves, hat and water-resistant boots.
• Take into account the special needs of babies, the elderly, disabled individuals and family pets.
• If you have a wood stove or a space heater in the home, be aware of potential fire and carbon monoxide hazards; always keep a space heater at least three feet from anything that can burn like bedding, clothing and furniture. Don’t drape clothing over the space heater to dry. Also make sure the venting is compliant with local codes.

Make sure your homeowners insurance is up-to-date. Don’t wait until you have a problem to check if you have adequate insurance. Contact your agent and set up a time to talk about your coverages.

Keep Dry and Safe Outdoors
Also think about potential hazards outdoors. Be aware of the following:

• Avoid overexerting yourself in the snow. Heavy shoveling, walking in snow and pushing a car can lead to sweating followed by chills and hypothermia.
• Dress for the weather. Wear a hat, mittens and water-resistant boots. If you must wear dressier shoes, bring them along and change out of your boots when you get inside. Slip and fall accidents can happen if you’re not wearing the right footwear for the weather.
• Keep your clothes dry. Change out of wet clothes and socks.
• As wind speed increases, heat is carried away from a person’s body more rapidly. Understand that this can be a serious hazard when you’re outdoors in windy, cold weather. Dress in lightweight, loose-fitting layers and keep your body covered.
• Avoid drinking alcohol when you’re out in the snow.

Know Your Limits When it Comes to Snow Sports
Snowmobiling is an outdoor adventure the whole family can enjoy, but beware of some hazards that can cut short any snowmobile excursion.

• Avoid snowmobiling alone. It’s more fun and it’s safer when you bring along a friend.
• Maintain a safe speed when driving a snowmobile and always maintain control of the vehicle. Consider the weather conditions while you’re operating a snowmobile and make sure you’re driving appropriately for them.
• Think ahead and bring supplies with you every time you take out your snowmobile. You should have your owner’s manual, an extra belt, extra spark plugs, a tow rope, a small tool kit, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, extra parts, a blanket, waterproof matches and a compass.

Take Precautions If You Have to Drive
Driving in bad weather is a challenge and in many cases one accident can lead to another, having a domino effect. The best solution is to avoid driving in snowstorms, but if you can’t, have emergency supplies on hand.

You should always have emergency supplies in your car, but have the following in the vehicle when you’re venturing out in the snow:

• Cell phone
• Battery-powered flashlight
• Jumper cables
• Sand or cat litter for traction
• An ice scraper, small shovel and a snow brush
• Warning devices like flares or reflectors

If you’re going to be on the road longer, include food, water, blankets and prescription medication. Once again, the safest bet is to avoid driving in bad weather, but if you have to, tell someone your route and how long you’re going to be so if you don’t make it there they can call the authorities. Make sure this person has your cell phone number.

Give yourself enough time to stop for a school bus that is picking up or dropping off children. Small children may be hard to see if snow banks have built up on corners. Be cautious when you’re traveling down a street where children are playing outdoors.

Don't sit in a parked car with the engine running unless a window is open. Don’t let your car run while parked in a garage. These situations lead to high levels of carbon monoxide in the air.

Make sure your car insurance is up-to-date. Contact your agent and set up a time to talk about your coverages. It’s a great idea to meet with your agent once a year to talk about your current coverages because chances are your needs have changed.

Snow and ice can be dangerous if you’re not prepared or not aware of your surroundings. If you play it safe and smart, you and your family can stay dry and warm during the winter season.

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