Tips to prepare for the cold weather that’s on its way!
PREPARING AT HOME OR WORK:
Remaining indoors protected from the elements is the safest place during a winter storm. The primary concern of indoor shelter is the potential loss of heat, power, telephone service and a shortage of supplies if the storm persists for more than a day. Keep the following available:
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Battery powered NOAA weather radio and portable AM/FM radio
- Extra food and water, especially high energy food that requires no cooking or refrigeration such as dried fruit and canned goods (Don’t forget the non-electric can opener)
- Medicine, First Aid supplies and ample baby supplies
- Emergency heating source, such as a stocked fireplace, wood stove, or space heater
- Smoke detector and fire extinguisher since the chance of fire increases dramatically using alternative heating!
About 70% of deaths during an ice or snow storm occur in a vehicle! If you wonder if you should attempt to travel, then don’t! If you must travel, then allow extra time. Reduce your speed and do not attempt to make sudden turns or stops. Winterize the vehicle so it will be reliable. This includes a good set of tires. Other items necessary for the car or truck include:
- Dry blanket(s) or sleeping bag
- Extra dry clothing
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- High calorie, non-perishable food
- Snow shovel, windshield scraper and brush
- Booster cables
- First Aid kit and a small container for water
- Maps, compass, knife and water proof matches
PROTECTING YOUR PETS:
Don’t forget the animals during a winter storm! Most animal deaths during a storm are caused by dehydration from frozen water.
- A temperature of 10° Fahrenheit (F) or below is too cold for any pet to tolerate. The physical stress of cold temperatures can make pets more susceptible to illness or infection.
- Provide outdoor dogs and cats with a dry, insulated pet house or shelter out of the wind. Staying warm demands extra calories, so increase your pet’s food intake (particularly protein).
- Remove ice, salt and caked on mud from your pet’s paws and coat right away. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet has frostbite. Frostbitten skin may turn reddish, white or gray and it may be scaly or sloughing.
- Pets like the smell and taste of antifreeze, but even a small amount can kill them.
- Don’t use metal water dishes outside as your pets tongue could stick to the frozen metal.
- Dogs confined to the house because of winter weather may lack proper exercise and suffer depression. Help by giving more attention and encouraging them to be active.