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EXTREME COLD TRAVEL TIPS

Be Cautious About Travel

Listen for radio or television reports of travel advisories issued by the National Weather Service.

  • Do not travel in low visibility conditions.
  • Avoid traveling on ice-covered roads, overpasses, and bridges if at all possible.
  • If you must travel by car, take a mobile phone with you.
  • If you must travel, let someone know your destination and when you expect to arrive. Ask them to notify authorities if you are late.
  • Check and restock the winter emergency supplies in your car before you leave.
  • Never pour water on your windshield to remove ice or snow; shattering may occur.
  • Don’t rely on a car to provide sufficient heat; the car may break down.
  • Always carry additional warm clothing appropriate for the winter conditions.

What to Do if You Get Stranded?

Staying in your vehicle when stranded is often the safest choice if winter storms create poor visibility or if roadways are ice covered. These steps will increase your safety when stranded:

  • Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna as a signal to rescuers and raise the hood of the car (if it is not snowing).
  • Move anything you need from the trunk into the passenger area.
  • Wrap your entire body, including your head, in extra clothing, blankets, or newspapers.
  • Stay awake. You will be less vulnerable to cold-related health problems.
  • Run the motor (and heater) for about 10 minutes per hour, opening one window slightly to let in air. Make sure that snow is not blocking the exhaust pipe—this will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to improve your circulation and stay warmer.
  • Do not eat unmelted snow because it will lower your body temperature.
  • Huddle with other people for warmth.

Vehicle Emergency Supplies List:

  • keep the gas tank near full to help avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
  • blankets
  • first aid kit
  • a can and waterproof matches (to melt snow for water)
  • windshield scraper
  • booster/jumper cables
  • road maps
  • mobile phone
  • tool kit
  • paper towels
  • bag of sand or cat litter (to pour on ice or snow for added traction)
  • shovel
  • container of water and high-calorie canned or dried foods and a can opener
  • flashlight and extra batteries
  • canned compressed air with sealant (for emergency tire repair)
  • brightly colored cloth

Extreme Cold Home Tips

Extreme Cold Health Tips

 

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