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Health & Fitness

Winter Weather Preparedness

As another winter storm approaches, it is time to discuss winter emergency preparedness. Winter weather in New England brings a unique set of challenges for preparedness. As we get deeper into the winter season, we should ensure our emergency Go-Kits are stocked and prepared for winter weather. This means adjusting certain items you may not normally have during the other seasons, such as blankets. Here are some basic steps to be prepared for winter weather.

 

For your cars, ensure you have a full tank of gas prior to a winter storm. Other supplies you should have in your vehicle:

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Sand for additional traction should you get stuck

A good snow brush/ice scraper

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A blanket in case you get stranded in your vehicle

An extra jacket, gloves, and a warm hat.

 

More can be found here.

http://www.weather.com/life/safety/autosafety/article/winter-survival-kit_2011-10-30

 

These are some basics that should live in your trunk during the winter in addition to your normal emergency kit you keep in your car.

 

During winter weather it’s also important to ensure you are taking care of yourself during some of the strenuous activity such as shoveling snow. Just because you are in the cold doesn’t mean you don’t need to drink water and hydrate like you would if it was 90 degrees. Make sure you are well hydrated. You also need to make sure you are doing these activities at a reasonable pace for yourself, no one knows your body better than you so take your time and don’t over exert yourself.

 

More winter weather preparedness information can be found at the following sites:

 

http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather

http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/guide.asp

 

Steve Tyliszczak

Public Health Preparedness Coordinator

East Shore District Health Department





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