DLSC encourages winter weather preparedness

As temperatures begin to cool, it is important to prepare for winter weather. Danville Life Saving Crew members encourage everyone to prepare for winter early to prevent cold weather illnesses. Frostbite and hypothermia can occur when people are exposed to cold temperatures for an extended amount of time. It is important to be dressed appropriately for cold weather and to be prepared for emergencies where you may be stuck in frigid temperatures.

Below are winter weather preparedness tips compiled from www.ready.gov/winter:

Create a Home Emergency Kit:

• Include enough supplies for three days of self-sufficiency

• Food & Water: include water (one gallon, per person, per day) and non perishable foods that do not necessarily need to be warmed, like crackers, cereal, peanut butter and canned goods

• Supplies: include flashlights and extra batteries or candles for light if power fails, blankets for warmth, whistle to signal for help, cell phone chargers

• Hygiene: Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for sanitation

Create a Car Emergency Kit

• Supplies: include items like jumper cables, flashlights, phone charger, ice scraper, extra blankets for warmth and cat litter for traction

• Food & Water: include non-perishable food items and water

Fire & Heater Safety:

• Keep at least three feet of clear space around fireplaces and heaters to prevent a fire

• Keep a fire extinguisher in your home and make sure everyone knows how to use it

• Use electric heaters with automatic shut-off when tipped over

Change Batteries

• Change batteries in smoke detectors and carbon-monoxide detectors

• If your detectors are out dated, purchase new ones to ensure immediate detection of fire or carbon-monoxide concentration

Insulate Doors & Windows

• Place weather stripping around doors and window sills to help keep heat in

• If you do not have storm windows, cover windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air outside

#SafetyTips #WinterSafety