Winter in the United States can bring intense cold, snow, sleet, and freezing rain, affecting even warm states like Hawaii, Atlanta, and Dallas. Thousands of people are injured or killed in traffic accidents during winter storms due to slippery roads. It is crucial to prepare for winter by taking steps to protect your home, car, family, and wardrobe.
Hypothermia is a common winter weather killer, caused by dangerously low body temperatures from extreme cold. Warning signs include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, slurred speech, and drowsiness. It is important to seek immediate medical attention for suspected hypothermia and warm the victim slowly.
For those experiencing homelessness, winter is an especially dangerous time, with around 700 individuals dying from hypothermia each year. In preparation for winter, ensure your home is safely heated, stocked with supplies, and winterized. Have a safety kit in your car with blankets, water, food, and medications if you get stranded.
When driving in winter conditions, slow down, ensure your headlights are on, and have a safety kit in case you get stranded. If you slide off the road, stay in your vehicle, run the engine for short intervals, and do light exercises to keep warm. If the power goes out at home, be cautious with space heaters, fireplaces, candles, and generators to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and fires.
Dressing appropriately for the cold by layering clothes, wearing warm accessories, water-resistant boots, mittens, and a hat is essential. It is crucial to know the signs of hypothermia and take precautions to stay warm and dry when outside in winter weather.
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