By Logan Wells, News Director | Logan@kymnradio.net
This week is Winter Hazard Awareness Week and with the forecast predicting a chance of snow on Wednesday for Northfield, now is a good time to remember some safety tips.
Winter weather creates a higher risk of car accidents. MN Homeland Security and Emergency Management Director Kristi Rollwagen advises making sure your car has the following items:
“Things that you would want to have if you travel out in the winter; maybe a shovel, maybe some kitty litter, salt, looking at a way to keep a blanket, a set of boots and gloves if you should get stranded or get off the road, having a charged cell phone and a cell phone charger with you in the car.” – MN Homeland Security and Emergency Management Kristi Rollwagen (Audio courtesy of the Minnesota News Network)
Find more information from the National Weather Service about winter safety here.
Government officials also remind drivers to use caution around snow plows and stay five lengths behind any plows. In Minnesota, you can call 511, check online at 511mn.org, or use the app beforehand to check road conditions on highways and interstates. Officials remind everyone to avoid unnecessary travel if road conditions are poor.
Government officials also remind drivers to use caution around snow plows and stay five lengths behind any plows. In Minnesota, you can call 511, check online at 511mn.org, or use the app beforehand to check road conditions on highways and interstates. Officials remind everyone to avoid unnecessary travel if road conditions are poor.
Northfield Emergency Medical Chief Brian Edwards advises people to create an emergency plan and kit:
“Think if then, if this happens then what am I going to do or how am I going to respond to it so for instance if there’s a you know if there’s a significant enough ice storm and it knocks out power for 3 days and what am I going to do to get through that so having a plan having contingency plans.” – Northfield EMS Chief Brian Edwards on the KYMN Morning Show
You should have an emergency kit in your home, car, and at work. Edwards also advises everyone to have a communication plan and a backup in case phones or other technology fail.
Lastly, officials remind everyone to enjoy the outdoors safely in the winter. Wear layers that are loose-fighting and warm. Remain alert for frostbite and hypothermia. If winter gear is wet, replace it with dryer clothing. And always have backup items, especially of socks, gloves, and hats.
