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Winter Survival Tips
As the New Year ushers in a blast of cold air and a potential storm of mixed precipitation of snow, sleet, and freezing rain into the Attleboro area; the Attleboro Emergency Management Agency offers the following winter survival tips prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency/National oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Winter Preparedness at Home
Two necessities, if homebound during a winter storm, are food and heat. Keep a supply of natural, quick-energy foods that allow the body to produce its own heat efficiently like peanut butter, raisins and other dried fruits. Try to keep an adequate supply of fuel in your home. Regular supplies may be limited by storm conditions, so use it sparingly.
If you are without heat during severe winter weather, the first step is to call for help - your furnace service company or landlord. In an emergency, an alternative heating source would keep at least one room warm enough to live in. This could be a coal-, wood-,or oil-burning stove, a fireplace or space heater. However, use emergency heating equipment carefully and keep a fire extinguisher handy. Second step, if without heat, is to collect drinking water and open faucets to a slow drip to prevent freezing. Third, dress warmly in layers of clothing rather than a single, thick layer. Wear a hat; body heat is lost through the head.
Make sure you have an emergency kit handy which includes phone numbers you can dial for help (Police, Fire Department, local emergency management, hospital, etc.); a battery-powered radio; flashlight and extra batteries; first aid supplies; and extra blankets or sleeping bags.
Winter Preparedness Outdoors
During severe winter weather, staying home is the best recommendation. However, if you have to venture outdoors to a local grocery store or to shovel snow; avoid overexertion - cold weather itself puts an added strain on the heart, dress warmly in loose fitting, layered wool or fleece clothing, watch for frostbite - re-warm affected areas, avoid alcoholic beverages and keep yourself and your clothing dry.
Winter Driving
Keep your car in top operating condition. Check all fluids, tires, exhaust system, brakes, battery, etc. Before driving anywhere, check weather information on the radio. It is always best to stay off the road during a winter storm. However, if you have to drive, plan a winter storm kit for your car: matches and candles, extra clothes, a blanket, first aid kit, flashlight, sand, shovel, booster cables, canned nuts and fruits; and remember to keep your gas tank filled. If the storm seems too much to handle, seek refuge.
If trapped in your car, do not panic and stay in the car during blizzard conditions. Keep a downwind window slightly open for fresh air and run engine and heater sparingly to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Do not remain in one position for too long, exercise by clapping hands and moving your arms and legs. Turn on dome light at night as a signal to work crews.
Attleboro
Emergency Management Agency wishes you a happy
and healthy New Year. Winter weather can be a lot
of fun for some with skiing, sledding, and skating.
It is our hope that in severe winter weather everyone
remains safe and warm. If you would like further
information on winter survival during severe weather,
please contact our office at 508-223-2200.
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©2009 Professional Fire Fighters of Attleboro
I.A.F.F. Local 848