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FALL SEASON SAFETY TIPS ~ HOME MAINTENANCE
SAFETY TIPS FOR FALL DRIVING
WINTER SAFETY ~ TIPS TO HELP MAKE WINTER LESS PAINFUL
WINTER SAFETY ~ FIRE PROTECTION
WHAT TO DO BEFORE WINTER STORMS AND EXTREME COLD ARRIVES
SAFETY TIPS ~ WINTER DRIVING
TEMPERATURE RELATED WINTER SAFETY TIPS
WINTER STORM PREPARATIONS
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Helpful Tips Heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region. Winter storms can result in flooding, storm surge, closed highways, blocked roads, downed power lines, and hypothermia.
Add the following supplies to your disaster supplies kit:
· Rock salt to melt ice on walkways · Sand to improve traction · Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment. Prepare your home and family · Prepare for possible isolation in your home by having sufficient heating fuel; regular
fuel sources may be cut off. For example, store a good supply of dry, seasoned
wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.
· Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply by insulating walls and
attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows, and installing storm
windows or covering windows with plastic.
· Winterize your house, barn, shed or any other structure that may provide shelter for
your family, neighbors, livestock, or equipment. Clear rain gutters, repair roof
leaks, and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or other structure
during a storm.
· Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a
little during cold weather to avoid freezing.
· Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how
to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to
alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.
· Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts). · Hire a contractor to check the structural ability of the roof to sustain unusually
heavy weight from the accumulation of snow or water, if drains on flat roofs
do not work.
Prepare your car · Check or have a mechanic check the following items on your car: · Antifreeze levels - ensure they are sufficient to avoid freezing. · Battery and ignition system - should be in top condition and battery terminals
should be clean.
· Brakes - check for wear and fluid levels. · Exhaust system - check for leaks and crimped pipes and repair or replace as
necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning. · Fuel and air filters - replace and keep water out of the system by using additives
and maintaining a full tank of gas.
· Heater and defroster - ensure they work properly. · Lights and flashing hazard lights - check for serviceability. · Oil - check for level and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures
and do not lubricate as well.
· Thermostat - ensure it works properly. · Windshield wiper equipment - repair any problems and maintain proper washer
fluid level. · Install good winter tires. Make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather
radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some
jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with
chains or snow tires with studs. · Maintain at least a half tank of gas during the winter season. · Place a winter emergency kit in each car that includes: · A shovel · Windshield scraper and small broom · Flashlight · Battery powered radio · Extra batteries · Water · Snack food · Matches · Extra hats, socks, and mittens · First aid kit with pocket knife · Necessary medications · Blanket(s) · Tow chain or rope · Road salt and sand · Booster cables · Emergency flares · Fluorescent distress flag
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