MENDOTA - With the exception of an early bout of cold and snow in November, so far this winter has been relatively mild. That seems to be changing though, with temperatures predicted to fall below zero and another of 3-5 inches of snow possible later this week.
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MENDOTA - With the exception of an early bout of cold and snow in November, so far this winter has been relatively mild. That seems to be changing though, with temperatures predicted to fall below zero and another of 3-5 inches of snow possible later this week.
Preparing for these snowstorms and extreme cold spells is important for staying safe throughout the season. State Farm has some timely reminders to help everyone prepare for this return to winter.
STORM PREPARATION
Blackouts and snow-ins can occur with little warning during winter months, it is best to prepare yourself and your family ahead of time for such winter emergencies. Having the following items ready will help you make it through safely:
WINTER ACTIVITIES
With colder temperatures and the threat of more snow ahead of us, many people, young and old, will head outside to enjoy their favorite winter activities. Use the following tips to make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable winter.
Before bundling up to head outdoors, be sure to check both the temperature and the wind chill. Wind chill indicates how the air feels on your skin. It can vary dramatically from the actual temperature. You will want to take extra safety precautions since low wind chills and cold temperatures can have dangerous effects on your body, such as frostbite and hypothermia.
Frostbite occurs when parts of your body freeze from prolonged exposure to the cold. Warning signs include numbness and skin that is white or grayish-yellow and unusually firm or waxy. Hypothermia sets in when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it. There are several stages of hypothermia, but common symptoms include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, slurred speech and drowsiness. Victims with frostbite or hypothermia should receive immediate medical attention.
If you do venture outside, layer up. Wear wool, silk or polypropylene inner layers and a tightly woven or wind-resistant outer layer. Finish off with the essentials: a hat, water-resistant boots, and gloves or mittens. Remove layers as you warm up - sweat can aid in heat loss.
Keep in mind the following safety tips to enjoy your favorite outdoor winter activities:
Skiing and snowboarding
Ice skating and hockey
Snowmobile cruising
Sledding
WINTER DRIVING
Winter driving has its own set of challenges from the moment you start your vehicle. This is especially true during the dark and potentially treacherous driving days of winter - it is essential to keep car windows clear. Take extra time to remove snow and ice from your car before driving on wintry roads.
Here are some useful winter driving suggestions:
Carry a Winter Driving Kit
Winter weather could leave you stuck in the snow, but the following items in your winter driving kit might help you get back on the road and on your way:
Pack a Winter Survival Kit
In case you are marooned in your car, keep a small winter survival kit on hand throughout the winter. Some useful items include:
If You Become Stranded
Few people like driving through a snow storm, and most heed warnings to stay off the roads when a storm is bearing down. But even the best-prepared and expert drivers can get stuck. If it happens to you, here are some important reminders:
Be prepared. While the best first step is prevention, some storms come on quickly. If you do get stranded, keeping a few essentials, noted above, in your car can help keep you comfortable while you wait.
Stay inside. If possible, pull off the highway and turn your hazard lights on or tie something bright to your car’s antenna to signal that you need help. Then wait inside your car until help arrives to avoid exposure to frostbite and prevent hypothermia.
Call 911. If you have a charged phone and reception, call for help and describe your location as best you can.
Clear the tailpipe. Make sure there’s no snow covering your tailpipe in order to prevent carbon monoxide buildup inside the car. Check the tailpipe periodically to ensure that fresh snow isn’t blocking it, always watching for oncoming traffic before exiting your vehicle.
Keep moving. Staying active inside your car will help you keep warm. Clap your hands and tap your toes to keep your circulation moving and prevent frostbite but avoid overexertion and sweating.
Drink fluids. Dehydration can make you more susceptible to the effects of cold. If there’s no drinking water inside your car, melt some snow inside a bag or other makeshift cup to stay hydrated.
Conserve your vehicle's battery. Use lights, heat, and radio sparingly.
Run your engine. Provided you have enough gas in your tank, run the engine for about 10 minutes every hour to keep the car warm. Turn on interior lights when your engine is on so you can be seen inside your car. Open a downwind window slightly for ventilation and clear snow from the exhaust pipe to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Don’t overexert yourself. Cold weather puts your heart under added stress. If you’re not used to exercise, shoveling snow or pushing a car could put you at risk of a heart attack.