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Winter Weather Safety
Winter Hazard Awareness Week – November 17-21
Minnesota summers are cherished times. But as the season turns to fall, and the air turns crisp, a Minnesota winter is soon on the way. As the gloves and boots are pulled out of the closet, it is time to refresh everyone’s winter safety knowledge and skills - and get prepared.
Each year, the National Weather Service and the Minnesota Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management promote winter safety and preparedness for all citizens wherever they are: in their homes, on the road, at work and at play. Unfortunately, many people each year suffer needlessly because they are unaware of the potential dangers of the winter season.
Winter safety information will be presented each day during the week of November 17. The winter safety information will be separated into the five topics below.
Keep ahead of winter storms by paying attention to the latest weather forecasts and warnings.
- Outlook: Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2-5 days. Stay tuned to local media for updates.
- Watch: Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36-48 hours. Prepare now!
- Warning: Life-threatening severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. Act now.
- Advisory: Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. If you are cautious, these situations should not be life-threatening.
Since there are many outdoor activities available during winter, it is important to be aware of how to stay safe from the cold, ice and snow.
- Avoid overexertion, including when shoveling snow.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Watch for frostbite and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms are present.
- There is no such thing as "100% safe ice" on a frozen lake or pond.
- Guidelines for minimum ice thickness: 4 inches for walking and ice fishing, 5-7 inches for snowmobiling, 8-12 inches for a car or small pickup, 12-15 inches for a medium-sized truck.
- Avoid drugs or alcohol when operating a snowmobile.
Cold weather means people are inside their homes more and using additional measures to keep their homes warm. This increases the chance for home fires unless safety precautions are taken.
- Turn off portable heating appliances when leaving the home or retiring for the evening.
- Have at least 3 feet of clearance between any heating equipment and anything that can burn. Keep children and loose clothing away from any heating equipment.
- Use a sturdy screen or glass closure in front of your fireplace and burn only clean fireplace wood.
- Make sure smoke detectors are installed on every level of your home, including your basement. Test them monthly.
- Place holiday decorations well away from heat sources. If you use a tree, water it daily as a dry tree can be consumed by fire in an instant.
With homes and other buildings sealed up in the winter, it is important to be aware of carbon monoxide and other pollutants that may be in the air.
- Make sure your heating system and all fuel burning appliances are adequately vented and maintained.
- Make sure your furnace has an adequate air supply.
- Do not use gas stoves, ovens or portable camping equipment to heat living areas.
- Have a qualified technician install and check furnaces and all fuel burning appliances.
- Install a UL-listed carbon monoxide detector; one which sounds an alarm. This is in addition to a working smoke alarm.
Winter weather can result in hazardous driving conditions, making it important to prepare ahead of time in order to stay safe.
- Make sure your vehicle is ready for the season. Throughout the winter, keep your gas tank at least half-full to avoid gas line freeze.
- Carry a winter storm survival kit. Pack high energy foods, spare batteries for a flashlight, a red bandana or cloth to tie on the antenna, and candles/matches/metal cup to melt snow for drinking water.
- Before increasing your speed, get a feel for the traction. Do not brake suddenly. If you begin to skid, remain calm. Ease your foot off of the gas and turn the wheel in the direction you want the front of the car to go.
- If severe winter weather is expected, consider postponing travel. Avoid traveling alone during a winter storm.