C&D: Ted Schubel with Info to Go - From Prince William Fire and Rescue: Stranded In a Winter Storm Be Prepared with an Emergency Car Kit Often we prepare for emergencies at home and work but should you become stranded in your vehicle while traveling, would you know what to do? According to the National Weather Service, the majority (70%) of snow and ice related fatalities occur in automobiles and approximately 25% are people caught off guard, out in the storm. Before you hit the road, follow these simple safety tips: Before Winter Begins Winterize your vehicle by checking: o Antifreeze levels o Battery and ignition system o Brakes o Exhaust system o Fuel and air filters o Heater and defroster o Lights and flashing hazard lights o Oil level and weight o Thermostat o Windshield wiper equipment o Install good winter tires Traveling in a Vehicle Check your local weather forecast and road conditions. Listen to your NOAA radio; a good way to keep ahead of the winter storm. If possible, try to avoid traveling in dangerous conditions. Be sure to carry warm winter clothes. Be sure to tell someone, family or friends, about your travel plans. Keep your gas tank near full to avoid gas line freezing. -more- DEPARTMENT OF FIRE & RESCUE Stranded in a Winter Storm – Be Prepared with an Emergency Car Kit January 20, 2014 Page 2 Make an emergency winter survival kit for your vehicle: Shovel Windshield scraper and small broom Flashlight w/extra batteries Battery powered radio Bottled water for each person and your pet Snack foods, containing protein, e.g. raisins, dried fruit, nuts, energy bars, canned fruit and a portable can opener Extra winter boots, coats, hats, socks and mittens/gloves First-aid kit Multi-tool, folding pocket knife Toilet paper Fully charged cell phone & charger Necessary medications Blankets (a space blanket if possible, and/or sleeping bags) Tow chain or rope Nylon cord Flagging tape or fluorescent distress flag Road salt and sand or cat litter Booster cables Emergency flares or reflective triangle If You Become Stranded Stay with your vehicle! First call for help; if you can’t get your car unstuck, don’t leave your car and begin walking for help. You stand a much better chance of being found if you remain with your car; it also provides the best shelter from the elements. Run the motor about 10 minutes each hour for heat. Make sure that the exhaust pipe is not blocked and roll down a window for adequate ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Make your vehicle visible to rescuers by tying a red-colored cloth to the antenna or by turning on the inside dome light while running the engine.
Posted on: Tue, 21 Jan 2014 03:00:01 +0000
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015