OMHC Public Service Announcement

Winter Safety & Health

With winter fast approaching, it is time for all of us to start thinking about planning ahead to stay safe and healthy. Cold temperatures, power outages and other outdoor activities can be hazardous, so prepare your car, home and check on older adults. If you are prepared for the hazards of winter, you will be more likely to stay safe and healthy when temperatures start to fall.

Start by winterizing you home. Install weather stripping, insulation and storm windows. Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls. Clean out gutters and repair roof leaks. Check your heating system and have it serviced professionally to make sure that it is clean, working properly and ventilated to the outside. Inspect and clean fireplaces and chimneys. Install smoke detectors, testing batteries monthly. Have a safe alternate heating source and alternate fuels available. Prevent carbon monoxide (CO) emergencies by installing a CO detector to alert you of the presence of the deadly odorless, colorless gas, checking batteries regularly, and learn symptoms of CO poisoning (headaches, nausea and disorientation).

Get your car ready for cold weather use before winter arrives as well. Start by servicing the radiator and maintaining antifreeze levels, checking tire tread or replacing tires. Keep the gas tank full to avoid ice in tank and fuel lines. Use a wintertime formula in your windshield washer. Prepare a winter emergency kit to keep in your car in case you become stranded which includes; blankets, food and water, booster cables, flares, tire pump, sand or cat litter, compass and maps, flashlight, battery powered radio, extra batteries, first-aid kit, and plastic bags.

Equipment to have in advance for emergencies should include stocking food that needs no cooking or refrigeration, water stored in clean containers, ensuring that your cell phone is fully charged, be aware of current and forecasted weather conditions when planning travel. Keep an up-to-date emergency kit that includes: battery operated flashlight, extra batteries, first-aid kit and extra medicine, baby items and cat litter or sand.

Many people spend time outdoors in the winter working, traveling or enjoying sports.

Outdoor activities can expose you to several safety hazards, but you can take steps to prepare for them. This includes wearing appropriate clothing, sprinkling cat litter or sand on icy patches, learning safety precautions, protecting your family from carbon monoxide.

When you travel, avoid traveling when the weather service has issued advisories. If you must travel, inform a friend or relative of your proposed route and expected time of arrival. If you become stranded in your car, stay with your car unless safety is no more than 100 yards away but continue to move your arms and legs. Stay visible by putting bright cloth on the antenna, turning on the inside overhead light (when the engine is running) and raising the hood when snow stops falling. Run the engine and heater only 10 minutes every hour, keeping a downwind window open, and make sure the tailpipe is not blocked.

Above all, be prepared to check on family and neighbors who are especially at risk from cold weather hazards: young children, older adults, and the chronically ill. If you have pets, bring them inside. If you cannot bring them inside, provide adequate, warm shelter and unfrozen water to drink. Use these helpful tips to be prepared for the onset of winter and be ready when it arrives. For more information, go to http://www.cdc.gov/Features/Winter Weather/.