Taking precautions can help keep everyone safe in winter

Winter in Wisconsin can be fun and exciting, but sometimes, the conditions can become dangerous. Winter storms can sweep through, bringing high winds, large amounts of accumulating and drifting snow, and ice, along with extreme cold temperatures.

Being prepared ahead of a storm will help residents get through it safely.

Assembling an emergency supply kit at home and in the car during winter, can save a life if there is a severe winter storm or extreme cold.

Have furnaces checked annually for efficient and safe operation before the heating season arrives, and be sure to change filters monthly. A winter weather service check-up for the vehicle by an auto service technician is a good idea.

Weather forecasts often provide ample warning to prepare for an impending storm, blizzard, ice-storm or extreme cold temperatures. Recognizing the alerts is an important part of winter safety.

Winter weather advisory – When a significant winter storm or hazardous winter weather is occurring, imminent and is an inconvenience.

Winter storm watch – A significant winter weather event (i.e. heavy snow, heavy sleet, significant freezing rain or a combination of events) is expected, but not imminent, for the watch area; provides 12 to 36 hours notice of the possibility of severe winter weather.

Winter storm warning – A significant winter storm or hazardous winter weather is occurring, imminent or likely, and is a threat to life and property.

Blizzard warning – Winds that are at least 35 mph or greater, blowing snow that will frequently reduce visibility to 1/4 mile or less for at least three hours, and dangerous wind chills are expected in the warning area.

Wind chill index – The calculation of temperature that takes into consideration the effects of wind and temperature on the human body. This is not the actual air temperature, but what it feels like to the average person. The chart shows the difference between actual air temperature and perceived temperature, and the amount of time until frostbite occurs.

When a winter storm warning is issued, prepare for it by gathering items that may be needed if the power goes out in the home, including the following:

• Candles and matches, a cranked or battery operated flashlight, and a radio

• Cell phone (make sure that it is fully charged)

• Extra batteries (for flashlight, radio, hearing aids)

• Blankets or sleeping bags, and extra clothing

• High-calorie non-perishable food (such as granola bars)

• Extra food and water for pets

• First-aid kit and any medications that are required During a storm, everyone should stay inside. If using heat from a fireplace, wood stove or a space heater, be sure to use the appropriate fire safeguards and properly ventilate the device, to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

If heat is lost in the home, close off un-used rooms. Be sure to eat and drink, as food provides the energy the body needs to produce its own heat. Wear layers of loose-fitting clothing and remove layers when necessary, to avoid overheating, perspiration and subsequent chill.

People should also check on their neighbors. Isolated or elderly individuals can be unaware of rapidly changing weather conditions, and may not be able to sense and respond to low temperatures during winter.

If travel during a winter storm is unavoidable, try to plan ahead by keeping the gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.

Before leaving, make a winter emergency kit and place it in the car. The kit should include the following:

• Blankets/sleeping bags, and extra clothing to keep dry

• Flashlight with extra batteries or a hand crank flashlight (preferably with a mobile phone adapter)

• First-aid kit

• Utility knife

• High-calorie, non-perishable food and water

• Sack of sand (or cat litter) for traction and a shovel

• Windshield scraper and brush

• Tool kit, tow rope and booster (jumper) cables

• Compass and road maps

• Candle, tin can, matches If caught in a vehicle during a winter storm, stay in the car or truck, as disorientation may occur quickly in wind-driven snow and cold.

Run the motor about 10 minutes each hour for heat, only after ensuring the exhaust pipe and radiator are not blocked by snow, or other debris. Open the window a little for fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

To make it easier for rescue personnel or snowplows to see the vehicle, turn on the dome light at night when running the engine. Tie a bright-colored cloth (preferably red) to theantenna or door. After the snow stops falling, raise the hood to indicate trouble.

Exercise from time to time, by vigorously moving arms, legs, fingers and toes to keep blood circulating, and to keep warm. Protect oneself by wearing loose layers of clothing underneath a wind and weather resistant coat. Look for symptoms of hypothermia, including shivering, exhaustion, confusion and slurred speech.

Although unpleasant a task most times, removing snow and ice from sidewalks after a snowfall is very important. Snow-covered or icy sidewalks can be slippery, which can cause people to fall and injure themselves.

Because of this, many municipalities have laws, stating that the snow must be removed from sidewalks within a certain amount of time after the snow has stopped falling. Wearing sturdy, rubber-soled boots and taking care where to step, can go far in preventing slips and falls.

When clearing sidewalks, be sure to be properly dressed: wear layers of windproof and waterproof clothing, and be sure to wear a hat and gloves. Avoid wearing cotton, as it takes a long time to dry and will sap heat. Instead, wear synthetic fabrics that wick moisture from the skin and dry quickly.

To prevent injuries while shoveling, try pushing the snow with short strokes, instead of lifting it. Also, use the leg muscles and not the lower back to move the shovel, while taking frequent rests.