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Wear several layers of loose-fitting, light-weight clothing. The layers actually trap warm air...and keep the cold air out.
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Wear a tightly woven water repellent coat...and a scarf. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from the cold.
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More than half of your body's heat escapes through your head and hands. Therefore...it's a good idea to wear a hat and mittens - Don't forget your pets. They get cold too!
Around the House
- Besides saving money on your electric bill, a well insulated home can make you feel warmer for a longer period of time when the electricity has been cut off. Check insulation in your attic, and make sure your windows are well sealed (not drafty).
- Make sure there is ample food (non-perishable) in the cupboards.
- Check flashlight batteries, and keep some candles handy (at night).
- Water lines are prone to break when it's frigid. Allow a small stream of water to flow through your faucets...and this will keep water moving through the pipes.
| Automobiles
Travel is not recommended when severe winter weather is anticipated.
Why? Two reasons:
- With snow and ice on roadways, motorists put themselves at risk. When traction becomes greatly reduced, accidents become much more likely.
- Clearing icy roads becomes difficult when there is a lot of traffic. More cars delay salt crews and plows, with roads remaining hazardous for a longer period of time.
However, with the fast pace of today...it's hard to keep people off of icy roads. So, if you must travel, slow down and use your brakes sparingly (to avoid sliding and spinning).
So you don't get stranded (or if you get stranded), you also want to do the following:
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- Winterize your vehicle (check antifreeze, depth of tire treads, overall running condition). Keep your gas tank at least half full to minimize ice in the tank.
- Carry a Winter Storm Survival Kit with you in the trunk. The kit should include warm blankets, flash lights, non-perishable food, drinking water, and first aid. If you get stuck, the following tools might be helpful: a shovel, tow rope, cat litter (for traction), and jumper cables. Always bring a windshield scraper to help you see where you're going!
- Before you leave, let someone know where you're going and what route you plan to take. It will make it easier to find you should you get stranded.
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