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Because safety is for everyone, and everyone has a responsibility for themselves in this matter, we bring to you a new initiative to elevate the awareness of safety. These nuggets of information can be used at the office, in the field, or at home. Some you have heard about, some are common knowledge, but all are worth a moment to review as we all want to make it home at the end of the day.

Although a couple storms have already visited, there are likely a few more around the corner. Be safe by being aware of the icy conditions while on the road, at home, or even in the parking lot.

Winter storms demand preparation. This article outlines tips to keep you and your family safe through freezing temperatures, power outages, and hazardous conditions. Learn how to winterize your home, stock up on supplies, avoid frostbite and hypothermia, and respond appropriately during storms. Equip yourself with the knowledge needed to endure a harsh winter.

Prepare NOW:

• Know your area’s risk for winter storms. Extreme winter weather can leave communities without utilities or other services for long periods of time.
• Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Learn how to keep pipes from freezing. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
• Pay attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms.
• Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Do not forget the needs of pets. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights.
• Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks. Keep the gas tank full.
• Learn the signs of and basic treatments for frostbite and hypothermia. For more information, visit: www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/staysafe/index.html. 

Survive DURING:

• Stay off-roads if at all possible. If trapped in your car, stay inside. Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia. 
• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven.
• Reduce the risk of a heart attack. Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow.
• Check on neighbors. Older adults and young children are more at risk in extreme cold.

Recognize and RESPOND:

• Frostbite causes loss of feeling and color around the face, fingers, and toes.
• Signs: Numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, and firm or waxy skin.
• Actions: Go to a warm room. Soak in warm water. Use body heat to warm. Do not massage or use a heating pad.
• Hypothermia is an unusually low body temperature. A temperature below 95 degrees is an emergency.
• Signs: Shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness.
• Actions: Go to a warm room. Warm the center of the body first—chest, neck, head, and groin. Keep dry and wrapped up in warm blankets, including the head and neck. 

*Source for this information: Ardmore Roderick*

Below is a demonstration on how to stay safe while walking on ice.

That's right, folks → walk like a penguin!

Read on to learn some tips regarding travel and car safety in the wintertime!

REACH OUT TO THE ARRO SAFETY COMMITTEE!

Karl Schmit

Jenna Bishop

Dave Kline

Kim Holman