Winter Safety Tips
Now that winter has officially arrived in the Midwest, it is important to remember that heavy snows, icy conditions and dangerously cold temperatures can occur at any time. To protect you and your loved ones from the effects of harsh winter weather, follow these safety tips:
- Keep an emergency supply kit in your home that includes a battery-powered radio with extra batteries, canned food and a manual can opener, flashlights and battery-powered lamps for power failures, wood for fireplaces, and rock salt to melt ice and sand to improve traction.
- Make sure your car is in proper working condition and includes blankets, warm clothing, booster cables and tools, bottled water, dried fruits and nuts, a first aid kid, a fire extinguisher, flashlights and batteries, a shovel and ice scraper
- Wear layers to protect yourself from the cold. A hat, scarf and mittens are also essential protection against winter weather.
- Carbon Monoxide Safety
For more information, click on these links:
- Dashing Safety Through the Snow - American Red Cross
- Stay Safe in Cold Weather (PDF - 919 KB) - National Institute on Aging
- Winter Fire Safety (PDF - 207 KB) - Federal Emergency Management Agency
- Winter Fire Safety Tips for the Home (PDF - 1.2 MB) - United States Fire Administration
