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Essential Winter Weather Preparedness: Strategies for Snow and Ice Safety

by/January 12, 2024
A man shoveling snow in cold weather gear. Salting driveways and shoveling snow is a major part of your winter weather preparedness plan.

Snowy Strategies Unpacking the Tools for Winter Weather Battles

As the winter season rolls in, it brings a host of challenges that demand our attention and preparation. Mother Nature, ever unpredictable, can unleash a variety of harsh conditions, from blizzards to freezing rain.

Recent data from the National Safety Council’s Injury Facts report on Weather-Related Deaths and Injuries (2023) shows a decrease in winter weather injuries by 16% over the past five years, despite an increase in weather events. This statistic underscores the importance of being proactive and informed about winter safety.

Will Flagler, Jr., Deputy Director at Arlington County Public Safety Communications and Emergency Management, warns of the unexpected dangers that winter brings. “The biggest threats might surprise you,” he explains. “Aside from the obvious risks of car accidents and hypothermia, heart attacks and carbon monoxide poisoning are also major concerns during the cold season.” Heart attacks, especially, can be a silent threat; many individuals are not accustomed to the strenuous activity of shoveling snow, and combined with frigid temperatures, this can pose a significant health risk.

As part of your winter weather preparedness, it’s important to understand the challenges posed by snow and ice. From safeguarding your home against winter’s bite to winter travel safety, we equip you with the knowledge to confidently face whatever challenges cold weather may bring.

  • Home Heating Safety:

    How: To keep your home safe and warm, proper heating measures are essential. Start by inspecting your heating systems before the winter season hits. Seal up any cracks or gaps around doors and windows to prevent drafts and keep the heat in.

    If using space heaters, place them away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended. It’s also crucial to ensure that your home is equipped with working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO2) detectors. These devices are vital for early detection of fire or gas leaks.

    Important Note: One of the most important snow storm safety reminders is to never use outdoor generators or propane heaters inside your home. These can release dangerous carbon monoxide, posing a serious risk of poisoning, especially in enclosed spaces. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and use heating equipment designed for indoor use.

    Why: Prevention of carbon monoxide poisoning and house fires is critical, especially when using alternative heating methods during power outages. Approximately 500 people in the United States die from carbon monoxide poisoning each year, with a significant portion of these deaths occurring during winter months due to the use of generators and other fuel-burning appliances in enclosed spaces. (Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

  • Pipe Protection:

    Outdoor Protection: Start by detaching any hoses or connections from your outdoor faucets. Wrap the faucets with multiple layers of rags, t-shirts, or use an insulated faucet cover to keep them snug and protected from freezing temperatures.

    Indoor Prevention: To prevent indoor water pipes from freezing, insulate them, especially in areas like garages or basements. During extreme cold spells, let your faucets drip slightly to keep water moving, as still water is more likely to freeze. Also, keep cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes. Most importantly, familiarize yourself with the location and operation of your main water shut-off valve to quickly address any potential issues.

    Why It Matters: Frozen pipes that burst can lead to extensive damage and expensive repairs. The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) reports that one in every 15,625 homes annually experiences a burst pipe due to freezing temperatures. Taking proactive steps can spare you significant hassle and financial burden.

    Additional Tip: Consider installing a smart water detector or leak sensor in areas prone to freezing. These devices can alert you to potential problems before they escalate, offering an extra layer of protection.

  • Emergency Supplies:

    Power & Light: Pack multiple flashlights and headlamps with fresh batteries. Remember, candles can be fire hazards when things get windy, so stick to LED lighting! Keep those phones charged and radios buzzing with extra batteries and a portable phone charger. Consider purchasing a rechargeable battery pack.

    Fuel Your Fortress: Stock up on non-perishable food and bottled water to keep your crew happy and hydrated for at least three days. Think hearty soups, canned pasta, protein bars, and don’t forget the emergency chocolate stash!

    Warmth Warriors: Cozy blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothes are crucial for staying snug even if the heat goes on vacation. Bonus points for hand warmers and thermal socks!

    Additional Considerations:

    • Medication and First Aid: Keep a basic first aid kit handy along with a supply of essential medications.
    • Pet Supplies: If you have pets, ensure you have their food, water, and any necessary medications or comfort items.
    • Entertainment: Books, games, or puzzles can be invaluable for keeping spirits up during a power outage.

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  • Winter Travel Safety:

    Winterize Your Ride: Before the snowflakes start swirling, get your car winter-ready. Check tire pressure for optimal traction, top off your windshield wiper fluid, and keep your gas tank full (or your electric vehicle fully charged). Pack an emergency kit in your trunk with essentials like blankets, gloves, snacks, jumper cables, a flashlight, and a phone charger. Don’t forget to lift your windshield wipers off the glass when parked to prevent them from freezing in place.

    Take it Slow and Gentle: Remember, icy roads don’t offer the same grip as dry pavement. Adjust your speed accordingly. The NHTSA reports that over 138,000 motorists are injured in winter weather crashes every year. Avoid becoming a statistic. Drive slowly, brake gently and progressively, and pump them if you feel your car start to skid.

    Clear the Way: Before hitting the road, remove all snow and ice from your vehicle, not just the windows. Snow on your roof can become a blinding blizzard for the car behind you, and ice chunks can fly off, endangering others. Take the extra few minutes to ensure yours and others winter travel safety.

  • Remember Your Neighbors & Pets:

    Check on the Vulnerable: Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors who may be affected by extreme cold, instances of power outages, or need help with snow removal or other winter chores.

    Keep Pets Indoors: Despite their fur coats, pets are susceptible to the dangers of cold weather. Dogs and other animals should be brought indoors during freezing temperatures. Leaving them outside can be life-threatening. Always ensure your furry friends have a warm, safe shelter during the winter months.

  • Disaster Relief Grants:

    Natural disasters strike each and every year all across the United States. Often close to 100 natural disasters are declared each year in response to floods, hurricanes, winter storms, wildfires, droughts, and tornadoes.

    Should you ever need assistance, FEEA offers disaster relief grants to eligible federal employees when these disasters strike. FEEA has given over 14,000 grants since 1986, for wildfires, hurricanes, and other natural disasters, as well as for groceries, fuel, and diapers during the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. Learn more about our Disaster Relief Grants.

By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that you and your family stay safe and warm during even the most blustery winter weather. So bundle up, pick a series to catch up on a streaming service or grab a book, make a hot cocoa, and enjoy the cozy comfort of your winter-ready home!

Winter Weather Preparedness Tip from Cleveland Water

The information provided in this piece is for your convenience and informational purposes only and not to be construed as professional advice. FEEA and its coauthors and sponsors are not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failure to act with regard to the content in this piece.

Would you like to reprint this piece in your agency human resource, federal employee association, or union local newsletter? You can do so at no cost by contacting communications@feea.org with your request.

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