MONROE — With the official start to the winter season on Dec. 21, now is the time to prepare for the winter weather that will be coming over the next few months. Snow, ice, and extreme cold can lead to accidents, injuries, fatalities, and illnesses, but there are steps everyone can take to stay safer this winter. Green County Public Health (GCPH) is encouraging community members to take the following steps this winter:
● Create a Winter Emergency Kit: Be prepared for winter weather at home, at work and on the go. Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand or cat litter, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water and non-perishable snacks. Keep a full tank of gas in your car throughout the winter.
● Develop an Emergency Plan: Establish a clear and concise communications plan with your loved ones so you know how to get in touch in an emergency. Before a winter storm or drop in temperatures, check in on your neighbors, friends, and family, especially older adults or others who may have unique needs, make sure they are prepared for the upcoming weather.
● Pay Attention and Stay Informed: Sign up for Nixle to receive local emergency weather alerts from the Green County Sherriff’s Office on your cell phone or through e-mail: https://local.nixle.com/green-county-sheriffs-office/. You can also tune in to local news, use weather apps on a cell phone, or use a weather radio to get weather updates.
● Prepare to Travel Safe: If you must travel in bad weather, exercise extra caution on the road. Slowing down and stopping on icy surfaces takes more time, so extend your following distance to 5-6 seconds instead of the usual 3-4. Always carry a winter emergency kit in your vehicle and stay informed about current road conditions by using 511 Wisconsin: https://511wi.gov/#:Alerts.
● Dress According to the Weather: In moderately cold temperatures you should wear two layers of clothing, and during extreme cold, you should wear three layers of clothing. In addition, it’s important to wear an outer layer that helps protect against wind and moisture. Don’t forget winter accessories including warm gloves or mittens, a hat, a scarf, and in extreme cold, a face mask.
“We can’t control the weather, but we can prepare for it. Taking steps like creating an emergency kit for your car, checking road conditions before leaving your home, or cancelling plans if the weather is bad can help keep you and your family safe this winter,” said RoAnn Warden, Health Officer at Green County Public Health. “The best time to start thinking about winter weather safety is now, before the bad winter weather begins.”
To learn more about winter weather safety and other public health topics, follow Green County Public Health on Facebook and visit the Green County Public Health website at gcpublichealth.org.