Caught in a Winter Storm?

Outside

Find shelter:

• Try to stay dry.
• Cover all exposed body parts.

No shelter:

• Build a lean-to, windbreak or snow cave for protection from the wind.
• Build a fire for heat and to attract attention.
• Place rocks around the fire to absorb and reflect heat.
• Melt snow for drinking water.
• Eating snow will lower your body temperature.

In a Vehicle

Stay in the vehicle:

• You will become quickly disoriented in wind-driven snow and cold.
• Run the motor about 10 minutes each hour for heat.
• Open the window a little for fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked.

Be visible to rescuers:

• Turn on the dome light at night when running the engine.
• Tie a colored cloth, preferably red, to your antenna or door.
• After snow stops falling, raise the hood to indicate you need help.

Exercise:

• From time to time, move arms, legs, fingers and toes vigorously to keep blood circulating and to keep warm.

Inside

Stay inside:

• When using alternate heat from a fireplace, wood stove, space heater, etc., use fire safeguards and properly ventilate.

No heat:

• Close off unneeded rooms.
• Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors.
• Cover windows at night.
• Eat and drink. Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat. Keep the body replenished with fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing.  Remove layers to avoid overheating, perspiration and subsequent chill.

*This article was originally shared by Merchants on January 31, 2019.