Your Guide to Survival in Winter

NEW YORK (WCBS 880)  -- Mother Nature is making herself known this winter...here are a few tips to stay protected.

If You Go Outside...
The National Weather Service has these tips for you to follow if you must go outdoors.
 - Wear loose-fitting, light-weight, warm/dry clothing in several layers.
 - Wear a hat.
 - Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold.
 - Wear mittens. (They are warmer than gloves.)
 - As protection against frostbite, cover any exposed skin surfaces.

Frostbite...
Now, if you should suffer frostbite, seek emergency medical care immediately. WebMD has more information on frostbite HERE.

Hypothermia...
Another danger from cold weather if hypothermia. That's when you lose more heat than you can produce. CLICK HERE to find out how to diagnose and treat hypothermia, courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Snow Removal...
The City of New York has tips for safely removing snow HERE.

Quiz...
The CDC's National Ag Safety Database and Ohio State University have developed a cold weather quiz. CLICK HERE to take it.

Elderly...
Don't forget to check on your older friends and relatives. If they are suffering from the cold weather, they might not let you know, so call and/or visit them.

Wind Chill...
What is the wind chill factor? CLICK HERE to find out.

Heaters...
There are precautions to take in heating your home when the temperature drops outside. CLICK HERE for tips from the New York City Fire Department.

Loss of Heat and/or Hot Water in NYC...
CLICK HERE to find out what to do if you lose your heat and/or your hot water and you live in New York City.

Driving...
If you must drive, the New York City Office of Emergency Management has the following tips for you.
 - Avoid traveling alone, but if you do so, let someone know your destination, route and when you expect to arrive.
 - Dress warmly. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in layers.
 - Listen to the radio or call the state highway patrol for the latest road conditions.
 - Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible; these roadways will be cleared first.
 - Drive slowly. Posted speed limits are for ideal weather conditions. Vehicles take longer to stop on snow and ice than on dry pavement.
 - Four-wheel drive vehicles may make it easier to drive on snow-covered roads, but they do not stop quicker than other vehicles.
 - If you skid, steer in the direction you want the car to go and straighten the wheel when the car moves in the desired direction.
 - Know your vehicle's braking system. Vehicles with antilock brakes require a different braking technique than vehicles without antilock brakes in icy or snowy conditions.
 - Try to keep your vehicle's gas tank as full as possible.
* If you get stuck on the road, then do the following:
 - Stay with your car. Do not try to walk to safety unless help is visible within 100 yards. You could become disoriented in blowing snow.
 - Display a trouble sign if you need help; tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna and raise the hood to alert rescuers.
 - Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
 - Leave the overhead light on when the car is running so you can be seen.
 - Move your arms and legs to keep blood circulating and to stay warm.
 - Keep one window slightly open to let in fresh air. Use a window that is opposite the direction the wind is blowing.

Dry Skin...
Another effect of winter is dryness. Skin can crack and bleeding can even occur. Your hair is also at risk. CLICK HERE for tips to prevent and treat this, courtesy of Prevention Magazine. Don't forget that your lips are not immune. Keep them moisturized as well.