Winter Safety Tips

At Home

Have your heating system checked annually.
Caulk doors and windows to keep cold air out.
Remove tree branches that can fall on the house during a storm. Notify utility company if branches are near power lines (do not remove these yourself).
Plan to have a back-up power source for any medical or mobility needs.
Protect pipes from freezing:
- Let hot and cold faucets drip.
- Wrap pipes in insulation or layers of old newspapers. Cover the newspapers with plastic to keep out moisture.
Clean your fireplace or stove and have your flue checked for any buildup of creosote.
Prepare a warm, safe place for your animals.
Replace batteries for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Be prepared for potential flooding when snow and ice melt.

Dress warm when working outdoors and/or planning to be outside for an extended period of time.
Know the signs of hypothermia (confusion, shivering, difficulty speaking, sleepiness, stiff muscles).
Know the signs of frostbite (numbness or paleness of the nose, fingers, toes or earlobes).
Cold weather puts an extra strain on your heart. Activities such as shoveling snow, clearing debris or pushing a car can increase the risk of heart attack.
- Take frequent rest breaks to avoid overexertion.

Children are more at risk in colder temperatures. Be sure children are prepared when planning to be outside.
Winter sports and activities can be fun, but keep certain safety tips in mind:
- Dress appropriately.
- Never ice skate, ski, snowboard, or sleigh alone. Children should always be supervised by an adult.
- Keep sledders away from motor vehicles.
- Take breaks to prevent hypothermia and frostbite.
Bulky clothing, including winter coats and snowsuits, should not be worn underneath the harness of a car seat. View more car seat safety tips.