Winter Hazards Safety Tips

Planning Ahead for the Hazards of Winter Will Help You Stay Safe and Healthy

 

Winter storms and cold temperatures can be dangerous. As the temperature drops, people prefer to remain indoors, but staying inside does not guarantee your safety. Taking the following steps will help to keep you and your home safe and warm during the winter months.

 

  • Winterize your home.
    • Install weather stripping, insulation, and storm windows.
    • Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls.
    • Clean out gutters and repair roof leaks.

       

  • Check your heating systems.
    • Have your heating system serviced professionally to make sure that it is clean, working properly, and ventilated to the outside.
    • Inspect and clean fireplaces and chimneys.
    • Install smoke detectors. Test detectors monthly and replace batteries twice a year.
    • If you plan to use an alternate heating source, ensure it is safe.
    • Prevent carbon monoxide (CO) emergencies.
      • Install a CO detector to alert you of the presence of the deadly, odorless, colorless gas. Check batteries twice a year and test monthly.
      • Learn symptoms of CO poisoning: headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.
      • Keep grills, camp stoves, and generators out of the house, basement and garage.
      • Locate generators at least 20 feet from the house.
      • Ensure heating system exhaust vents are not blocked and cleared of snow.
      • Leave your home immediately if the CO detector sounds, and call 911.

         

  • Be prepared for weather-related emergencies, including power outages.
    • Stock food that needs no cooking or refrigeration and water stored in clean containers.
    • Ensure that your cell phone is fully charged.
    • Keep an up-to-date emergency kit, including:
      • Battery-operated devices, such as a flashlight and radio.
      • Extra batteries.
      • First-aid kit and extra medicine.

         

  • If you plan to spend time outdoors:
    • Wear appropriate outdoor clothing: wear a tightly woven, preferably wind-resistant coat or jacket; inner layers of light, warm clothing; mittens; hats; scarves; and waterproof boots.
    • Sprinkle cat litter or sand on icy patches.
    • Learn safety precautions to follow when outdoors.
      • Work slowly when doing outside chores.
      • Take a buddy and an emergency kit when you are participating in outdoor recreation.
      • Carry a cell phone.

         

  • When planning to travel, be aware of weather conditions.
    • Avoid traveling when the weather service has issued advisories.
    • If you must travel, inform a friend or relative of your proposed route and expected time of arrival.

       

      Above all, check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially those at higher risk from cold weather hazards (young children, older adults, and the chronically ill). If you have pets, bring them inside. If you cannot bring them inside, provide adequate, warm shelter and unfrozen water to drink.

       

      No one can stop the onset of winter. However, if you follow these suggestions, you will be ready for it when it comes.

       

This is a message from the Raynham Health Department. For more information, please visit: http://www.mass.gov/safety-tips-for-specific-threats-hazards/need-to-know  or  http://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/index.html