Winter safety tips
Published Jan. 7, 2023
By Andrew Mundhenk, Henderson County Dept. of Public Health
Winter certainly made its debut last month in Henderson County. The winter storm over the Christmas holiday weekend sent temperatures near or below zero, leading to power outages and frozen water pipes.
Winter storms come in the form of snow, freezing rain, ice and — as we recently experienced — high winds and extreme cold. Their impact can cut off heat, power and communication services. They also put older adults, children, sick individuals and pets at greater risk.
Although we’ve already experienced a significant weather event this winter, it’s not too late to be prepared for when the next storm comes. Here are some winter preparedness tips from North Carolina Emergency Management and the national preparedness website www.Ready.gov:
Stay up to date on the forecast
N.C. Emergency Management recommends paying close attention to the local forecast and be prepared for what’s expected in the area. Use a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio or a weather alert app on your phone to receive emergency weather alerts.
Make your home winter ready
Ready.gov recommends gathering enough supplies to stay at home for several days without power. Consider every person’s specific needs, including medication. Keep cell phones, mobile devices and spare batteries charged.It’s also recommended to prep your home beforehand to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking and weather stripping. Learn how to keep pipes from freezing. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups. The American Red Cross also recommends talking with your family about what to do if a winter storm watch or warning is issued.
Vehicle safety is important, too
Be prepared to handle winter weather while in your vehicle as well. Preparedness officials recommend having an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water and non-perishable snacks. Keep a full tank of gas. If your car gets stuck during a storm, the National Weather Service recommends staying inside the vehicle and run the motor about 10 minutes each hour for heat. While running the motor, open the window a little for fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and clear snow from the exhaust pipe to avoid gas poisoning. It’s also important to be visible for rescuers by tying bright colored cloth to the car or using the dome light at night when running the car.
Don’t forget the pets
Don’t leave pets outside for long periods of time during freezing weather. Keep them warm, dry and indoors whenever possible. Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can harm pets’ feet as well. Gently wipe their paws of any irritants after they come inside. Collect emergency supplies for your pets as well. This includes enough food to last several days, a leash and pet carrier.
Consider fire safety
Home fires occur more often in winter than any other season, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. They state that “working smoke alarms are especially important during a loss of power when people may use alternate forms of heating equipment, portable generators and candles.” Other important tips: Never use candles for emergency lighting, as many household items can catch fire if they are too close to a candle's flame. Never use an oven or stovetop to heat your home. Keep portable generators outside, away from windows, and as far away as possible from your home. Install and test carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month.
Check on your friends, family and neighbors
Last but not least, check on your friends, family and neighbors who are especially at risk from winter weather hazards: young children, older adults and the chronically ill.
Additional winter weather safety tips are available at Ready.gov and ReadyNC.gov.
Andrew Mundhenk is the Communications Manager for the Henderson County Department of Public Health.
