NEWS RELEASE

 

November 23, 2009

 

For immediate release

 

For more information contact: Heather Easton or Amy Elwood 308-995-4778

 

Cold Weather Survival Tips

 

Now that the weather has turned cold and holiday travel is upon us, we wanted to remind people to take extra care. Serious health problems can result from prolonged exposure to the cold.  The most common cold related problems are hypothermia and frostbite.  Be cautious about travel, and if you must travel, use these guidelines to keep you safe.

 

Listen to media for weather conditions before leaving home so you may prepare accordingly.

 

Let someone know your destination and when you are expected to arrive.  Ask them to notify authorities if you are late.

 

Use four wheel drive or tire chains and bring a cell phone with you to call for help.

 

Always carry a winter survival kit for your car which should include:  blankets, first aid kit, windshield scraper, jumper cables, road maps, cell phone, bag of sand or cat litter(for added traction), tow rope, collapsible shovel, container of water and food, flashlight and extra batteries, canned compressed air for emergency tire repair, and a brightly colored cloth.

 

 Have your radiator system serviced or check the antifreeze level yourself.

 

Replace windshield wiper fluid with wintertime mixture.

 

Check the air pressure in your tires periodically.

 

Keep the gas tank near full to help avoid icing in the tank and fuel lines.  Having more fuel also means the longer you can run your engine and stay warm if you become stranded.

 

With these tips, we hope that you have a safe winter season.

 

For more information, call Two Rivers Public Health Department at 888-669-7154 or visit the website at www.tworiverspublichealth.com