Tips and Tricks To Navigate Harsh Winter Storms
As many in the US find themselves affected by unprecedented climate shifts, we’ve put together a few tips and tricks to navigate harsh winters and stay safe through this atypical season.
Winter storms have buffeted the US Gulf coast, and many, including our community members, are still reeling from the unprecedented weather. Because the storms have hit areas that often lack the infrastructure and construction to deal with snow, we’ve put together these tips and tricks to navigate snowstorms and cold weather.
Staying Warm In Cold Weather
The dangers of cold weather can easily be overlooked when surrounded by snow, which seems to be a much more urgent concern. Frostbite and hypothermia can settle in quickly when spending extended amounts of time outside, so it’s important to know how to keep warm. Even if you don’t own a heavy-duty winter coat, layering is your friend. Moisture-wicking undershirts and pants can be worn under clothing, and sweaters/cardigans/jackets can be layered over regular clothes. Remember that many thinner layers of clothing can often be more effective than a single thicker layer.
Protecting your extremities is also extremely important; you can double up on both socks and gloves. Hats are also helpful, as your extremities are where heat tends to escape from. In general, it’s better to limit the time you spend outside as much as possible, especially if you’re not moving around to warm up.
Staying Safe On The Road In Winter Conditions
The roads become much more perilous in snowy conditions. Snow and frost change the responsiveness of a vehicle’s steering and brakes, and an ongoing snowstorm can cause visibility issues. It’s recommended to drive more slowly than you usually would when the roads are snowy or icy. Give yourself enough braking room in case your tires skid, and brake earlier rather than later.
In terms of visibility, it’s important to make sure your front and rear windows are clear, as well as your rear-view mirror — perform these checks before driving off. Keep a shovel and a scraper/snow brush in your trunk and in your home as well, in case you get snowed in or your car becomes covered in snow if you park it outdoors. Night driving is also trickier, so take extra care and stay vigilant when it’s dark – scope out intersections and frequently check your blind spots to ensure road safety for yourself and everyone you’re sharing the road with.
When on foot, watch out for cars who may be dealing with reduced visibility or have less control over their vehicles – make yourself visible and make sure vehicle operators have seen you before crossing, especially at night.
Navigating Power Outages
Power outages can be concerning in cold temperatures, so the focus should be on conserving warmth and staying safe during extended outages. Monitor the weather forecast and try to keep essential devices charged when snowfall is projected. This means cell phones and rechargeable radios, as well as any other electronic devices that are essential.
You may be required to stay at home for an extended time, so make sure to stock up on the essentials:
Rechargeable battery packs and batteries
Flashlights
Candles
Water
Non-perishable snacks and food
Pets’ food
Blankets
First aid supplies
Medicine
In extreme cold, you can cover windows with blankets to conserve heat, and use towels on poorly isolated areas, such as door and window frames.
Dealing With Freezing Pipes
To no surprise, cold temps can also cause your pipes to freeze and potentially burst in your home! This is especially important to consider depending on the temperature you keep your home during cold temps and whether or not you will spend long periods away.
Here are some signs to look for that may indicate your pipes may have or are in the process of freezing over and have potentially burst:
If your faucet is opened/turned on and no water comes out
Running water coming from your home/building or under your walls
An ice dam on your roof or somewhere else on your property
It’s said that running water is less likely to freeze your pipes. Consider turning your faucets/taps on just enough for a small drip to keep them from freezing and potentially bursting.
Frozen pipes can be scary but here are some tips to keep them warm and… unfrozen!
If you have an attached garage, be sure to keep the door closed at all times unless you are entering or exiting.
Locate any interior shutoff valves for exterior faucets and make sure they are closed. If you have a water spout for a water hose, consider getting a covering for it. They run about $12 at Home Depot!
Make sure any unheated basement areas where plumbing could be located are not closed off so the heat from your home can reach them.
If you have lower cabinet doors in your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry area, open them to make sure warm heat can reach those pipes!
Travelling In Extreme Cold
Travelling in extreme cold temps can also be dangerous, and it's possible to be in a situation where you’re stranded. In any case, it's good to have an emergency bag in your vehicle just in case. Here are suggestions for helpful items!
Hand warmers
Extra gloves, hats, socks, and blankets (especially if you can find a thermal one!)
Flashlights
Batteries
Chargers and battery packs
Snacks and water
A first aid kit and any medications you may need
A map of your area
Spark plugs
General Tips
If you use a space heater, make sure to follow the usage instructions from the manufacturer for your safety! Make sure you keep any flammable or combustible materials far from them.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is more common during these months from various ways of trying to heat homes. Consider getting a Carbon Monoxide detector. Do not use your stove for heat as this can pose a risk for fire, and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Check your furnace filter and replace it if it has gotten dirty/the date has passed for use.