Snow Storm Safety

Do you know what to do in a snow storm? Winter weather can pose severe threats. Blowing wind, drifts, frigid temperatures and icy conditions can become dangerous and, at times, even life-threatening.

Keep your family safe. Follow these tips and be prepared.

Know What to Expect

The first step in being prepared is knowing what to expect from the various weather forecasts you might receive.

Snow Flurries - means light snow falling for short periods of time without the threat of accumulation.

Snow Showers - means that the amount of snowfall will vary from light to slightly heavier for short periods of time. Some accumulation is likely but will not be enough to cause concern.

Snow Squalls - means snow showers which are accompanied by gusty winds. Accumulation will be more significant than with snow showers alone.

Blowing Snow - means that the wind accompanying the snowfall will be strong enough to cause visibility concerns and significant snow drifts.

Blizzard - means that the wind accompanying a heavy snowfall will be stronger than 35 mph. Accumulation will be significant. Blizzards are usually accompanied by blowing snow causing severe visibility problems and substantial snow drifts.

Know the Levels of Concern

Tuning in to your local weather reports is a great way to stay ahead of potential disaster. Here are some other terms to know.

A frost or freeze advisory means that temperatures could drop low enough to cause harm, but there is not necessarily the potential for snowfall.

A winter weather watch means that severe conditions are possible within a day or two.

A winter weather warning means that severe conditions exist in or around your area.

A winter weather advisory means that conditions are severe enough to cause hazards. These hazards warrant caution, but they are not life-threatening.

A blizzard warning means that severe conditions exist which could be life-threatening.

What to do in a Snow Storm

Snow storms can have a serious impact on our daily lives. If enough snow falls you could easily become home-bound. Be prepared and stay safe.

• When a storm is predicted, stock up on groceries, water, medications and any other necessities to avoid the need for travel during the storm.

• Avoid unnecessary travel during the storm.

• Stay tuned to weather broadcasts and follow the forecaster's advice.

• Stay indoors.

• Wait until the storm has subsided before going out and attempted to clear away any snow. Take it slowly and take frequent breaks.

If you must go outside:

• Layer your clothing to stay warm.

• Make sure to wear a hat to prevent loss of body heat through your head.

• Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from the frigid air.

Cold Weather Safety

When the weather is cold there are some health concerns that you need to be aware of. Conditions resulting from exposure to extremely low temperatures include:

Frostbite - occurs when body tissue becomes frozen. Symptoms of frostbite include a loss of feeling to the affected area and/or a whitening of the skin on the affected area. If you suspect frostbite, seek medical attention immediately.

Hypothermia - occurs when the body temperature falls too far below normal. Symptoms of hypothermia include severe shivering, disorientation, memory loss, difficulty speaking and extreme weariness. If you suspect hypothermia take immediate steps to warm the person. Remove wet clothes, if possible, and replace with warm dry clothes or a blanket. Concentrate on warming the chest area, near the heart, first as this forces the cold away from the heart and helps to prevent heart failure. Seek medical attention immediately.

Protect your family. Know what to do in a snow storm and how to handle illnesses related to extreme cold temperatures.