With the harsh winter conditions this weekend, it is extremely important to be prepared for any complications it could throw our way. From travel safety to bundling up, here are some useful tips and tricks to keep you as safe and warm as possible.
Travel Safety:
Although heavily discouraged, if you have to travel this weekend, safety is going to be a big concern. When considering your travel, planning is very important. By mapping out your route, and making sure you have a charged device and emergency safety kit, you are much more prepared in the events of an accident. Now, when it comes to winter weather people underestimate the power of ice on the road. Even if the roads look slightly wet, they could still be very slick. If you are driving and begin to skid, don't panic. Ease your foot off the gas and turn the steering wheel in the direction you want the car to go. Also, if you are having trouble seeing the road while driving, pull over to the side of the road, turn on your hazard lights, and wait for visibility to improve.
Power Outages:
Power outages can be a severe side effect of harsh winter storms. If your residence happens to experience a power outage, there are many things you can do to stay warm and fed. To keep your space as warm as possible, close off unneeded rooms to avoid wasting heat and stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors. This will help prolong the heat you have and make sure you stay warm for as long as possible. When thinking about your food this weekend, it is heavily suggested to stock up early on non-perishable foods such as bread, canned goods, or produce that doesn't require refrigeration. Food provides your body with energy for producing its own heat and these products are perfect items that don't rely on electricity to keep fresh. On that note, if there is perishable food in your refrigerator or freezer, keep their doors closed for as long as you can. By keeping them closed, you can prolong the amount of time items stay fresh.
Bundling Up the Right Way:
If you have to go outside for an extended amount of time this weekend, make sure you are dressed properly for the temperatures and winds. Keep your nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes covered in warm, dry clothing such as water-resistant gloves, boots, and hats. These parts of your body are the first to be at risk for frostbite in harsh conditions. Unfortunately, you also need to worry about being too hot in your clothing. If you begin to overheat, you could begin to sweat. That perspiration will start to cool very quickly and drop your body temperature faster than normal.
Again, with the harsh winter weather coming our way, these tips and tricks could definitely help you make it through this weekend. Stay safe and warm!
-Weather Forecaster Orion Lucas
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