Ten Tips For a Safer Winter

RICHMOND, VA -- Sleet, snow, freezing rain, howling winds and bone-chilling temperatures could all be a part of Virginia's weather scenario this winter. In recent years, Virginians have had to deal with massive snow drifts, closed highways, subzero temperatures, prolonged power outages and fuel shortages. This winter season could offer more of the same.

"Severe winter weather doesn't have to be a life or death peril," said Addison E. Slayton, Jr., state coordinator for the Virginia Department of Emergency Services. "If we prepare now for winter hazards and pay close attention to National Weather Service weather advisories, we can safely face winter's bag of tricks."

The following tips can make the winter months ahead safer for you and your family:

1. Stock an emergency supply of water and non-perishable foods.
2. Keep an adequate supply of fuel in your home. Have an alternate heat source such as a wood stove, fireplace or space heater in case you lose power.
3. Make sure you have a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, extra batteries, a first-aid kit and extra prescription medications that you might need.
4. To prevent hypothermia, dress warmly, both during the day and while sleeping. Several layers of lighter weight clothing or blankets are better than a single, heavy layer. Be sure to wear a hat when going outside. Nearly half your body's heat is lost through the head.
5. Check on elderly neighbors and relatives. The elderly are especially susceptible to hypothermia, even inside their homes. Icy and slippery surfaces can cause dangerous falls.
6. Be sure your car is in good running order. Have a mechanic check your battery, antifreeze, wipers, ignition and thermostat. Good tires are very important!
7. Keep basic items in your car like a windshield scraper, battery booster cables, tow chain or rope, bag of sand, blanket, flashlight, first-aid kit, road map and some non-perishable food.
8. If you get caught on the road during a winter storm, stay in the car. Don't seek shelter or a telephone unless you can see one close by. For heat, turn on the car engine for brief periods.
9. To keep water pipes from freezing, wrap them in pipe insulation. During sustained cold periods, let each faucet drip a little to avoid freezing.
10. Cold weather puts a strain on the heart, even without exercise. During the Blizzard of 1993, more people died from heart attacks brought on by overexertion than any other cause. Be careful when shoveling snow, pushing a car or other exertion.

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