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Winter preparation key to survival
by Reginald Rogers
Paraglide
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photo by MetroCreativeGraphics |
The recent onset of low temperatures and the threat of snow has brought awareness to Fort Bragg officials and residents who commute to work and travel throughout the post. Safety is a top priority for officials, who urge the Fort Bragg community to use caution, especially during the winter months.
“Be aware of the possibility of hypothermia, which happens when one’s body temperature falls below 95 degrees,” cautioned Calvin McKenzie of the post’s Directorate of Plans, Training and Mobilization.
The possibility of having a blizzard in Southeastern North Carolina is improbable, but there’s always a chance that conditions could change and commuters could find themselves knee deep in snow. Because of that, officials have provided information designed to keep you safe during a winter storm.
According to a document from ReadyArmy.mil, the Army’s Safety Web site, residents should always monitor the weather to ensure they’re aware of conditions that may affect their local area.
Some conditions that are prevalent during winter months are freezing rain, sleet, frost, snow, or black ice.
Freezing rain is rain that freezes when it hits the ground. Ice may coat roads, walkways, trees and power lines. Ice on the roadways is what is referred to as black ice.
Sleet is rain that freezes into ice pellets before it reaches the ground. Sleet can cause moisture on the roads and walkways to freeze.
Freezing temperatures can also cause other inconveniences to homeowners, especially when water pipes freeze or burst as a result of ice accumulation. It can also be detrimental to motorists who become stranded as a result of impassable roadways or mechanical failures.
For homeowners or residents living in military quarters, “always remember to let water drip to prevent freezing,” said McKenzie.
He said it is also important to have a vehicle emergency kit hand, in the event that you’re stranded while driving.
“Keep this kit in your vehicle at all times,” he said. “The kit should contain, at a minimum, food, water, a first-aid kit, signal flares, jumper cables and seasonal clothing, such as coats and rain gear. You should also make sure you include your Family’s communication procedure, to include cell phone numbers.”
In the event of a winter storm, precautions should be taken to ensure that you’re able to survive for several days.
“Make sure you have flashlights and batteries, including a spare battery or hand-crank charger for your cell phone,” McKenzie added. “Ensure that you have a battery-powered or hand-crank radio or TV. Stockpile plenty of nonperishable food and bottled water.”
He said it’s important to back up computer files before the storm hits.
McKenzie said it’s also important to get an emergency supply kit and create a Family plan. He said residents should also wear several layers of warm clothing and keep moving to stay warm.
He also added it’s important to remember that pets are not immune to conditions cause by winter storms and will also suffer if exposed to harsh conditions for long periods of time.
“Do not forget your pets,” he said. “Bring pets inside immediately and place them in a contained room or area.”
According to ReadyArmy.mil, there are precautions that should be taken if drivers traveling during winter storm conditions.
First off, it is important to keep a full tank of gas. If you should find yourself trapped in a winter storm, you should pull to the side of the road and put the hazard lights on,” the Website says. Remain in the vehicle, where rescuers are most likely to find you. Run the engine for 10 minutes every hour to keep warm. Exercise to maintain body heat, but do not overexert yourself. Drink fluids to avoid dehydration and at night, take turns sleeping and turn the inside light on, but be careful not to waste battery power.
For more information on winter safety, log on to www.ready.army.mil or search www.redcross.org
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