MSP offers safety tips to stay safe during snowy, bitter cold days

Michigan State Police is offering tips to stay safe as residents deal with snowcovered roadways and, in some areas face a forecast of sub-zero temperatures, which can lead to frostbite and hypothermia.

Those who must go outdoors or have to travel are reminded to dress appropriately and have an emergency kit in their vehicle, Capt. Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management stated in a news release. Sweeney is also commander of MSP’s Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division.

To stay safe during cold weather, residents are advised to limit their time outside. Anyone who has to go outdoors should wear layers of warm clothing and watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia. Signs of frostbite includes loss of feeling and color around the face, fingers and toes, numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, and firm or waxy skin.

Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss and slurred speech or drowsiness. Other tips:

• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat a home with a gas stovetop or oven.

• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow to reduce heart attack risk.

• Check on neighbors. Note that older adults and young children are more at risk in extreme cold.

• Pets are also at risk for cold weather injuries and should be kept indoors.

MSP also offers safe winter driving tips, including:

• Check weather before leaving for a destination. Consider rescheduling or postponing a trip if the forecast looks dangerous.

• Give snowplow drivers plenty of room to clear snow from the roads.

• Keep tires at the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure and routinely check tire pressure during cold weather.

• Make sure the windshield solvent reservoir is full. Check wiper blades and replace when needed.

• Remove ice and snow from all lights, windows and license plate before driving. Wash the vehicle for better visibility to other drivers..

• Vehicles should have an emergency preparedness kit stocked with batteries, battery powered or hand-crank radio, flashlight, windshield scraper, jumper cables, shovel, blankets, first aid kit, nonperishable food and bottled water.

• If you get stranded, don’t leave your vehicle. Stay with the vehicle and wait for help.

Check travel conditions and weather reports before driving at www.michigan. gov/roadconditions. Major road closures can be found at www.michigan. gov/drive.