• Personal Safety During the Winter
  • Hypothermia
  • Carbon Monoxide Dangers and Generator Safety
  • Food Safety During Power Outages
  • Safety Around Downed Power Lines
• Safe Winter Travel
  • Winterize Your Vehicle
  • Winter Driving Tips
  • Personal and Vehicle Safety Kits
• Additional InFocus Resources

Hypothermia is a condition in which a person’s body temperature has dropped significantly below normal. The very young and elderly are the most susceptible to developing hypothermia when exposed to cold temperatures.

Hypothermia is particularly dangerous because a person may not know it is happening.

Warnings signs of hypothermia:

Adults:

• uncontrolled shivering, exhaustion
• confusion, fumbling hands
• memory loss, slurred speech
• drowsiness

Infants:

• bright red, cold skin
• very low energy

Resources:

• Prevent Hypothermia - Fact Sheets:
• In English
• In Spanish
• In Russian
• In Korean
• In Chinese
• In Vietnamese
• Cold Weather Tips for Pets - ASPCA

Keeping warm during a power outage can be a challenge. Prepare before a power outage occurs to ensure you have a safe alternate source of heat for your home.

Remember - NEVER use a charcoal grill, gas grill, generator or camp stove indoors or in a garage. Carbon monoxide can build up and cause illness and even death.

Resources:

• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and Safety
• Carbon Monoxide Video
• Carbon Monoxide Fact Sheets:
  • In English
  • In Spanish
  • In Russian
  • In Korean
  • In Chinese
  • In Vietnamese
• Using a Generator During a Power Outage
• Generator Safety - Video

Power outages are a frequent occurrence in Washington State during this time of the year. Being prepared and knowing the basics about food and water safety is essential to your health and comfort as well as that of your loved ones. 

Resources:

• Power Outage Fact Sheets (DOH)
• Food Safety - Prepare For Disasters and Power Outages
• Food Safety During Power Outages
• Protecting Food When the Power Goes Out (see page 2) (PDF)
• Emergency Food Supply - How Much Do You Need?
• 72-hour Comfort Kit (PIY)
• Extended Events (PIY)

Wind and winter storms can cause trees to fall on to power lines creating a dangerous situation. Be safe...

• Stay at least 30 feet away from a downed power line - you cannot tell by looking at it if it is an energized line.
• Never attempt to move a downed power line.
• Never walk under a downed power line.
• Avoid trees and branches that are in contact with the power line.
• If you are in a car when a power line falls on it, stay in the car and call 9-1-1.

Resources:

• Safety Near Downed Power Lines (Video)
• Power Lines and Safety in Your Vehicle

Winter conditions call for different driving tactics. Washington State Department of Transportation suggests: Ice and Snow, Take it Slow - slower speed, slower acceleration, slower steering, and slower braking. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination safely.

It is not worth putting yourself and others in a dangerous situation just to save time. If you find yourself stranded, be safe and stay in your vehicle, put on your flashers, call for help, and wait until help arrives.

Take the time to make sure your vehicle is in good working order; it may save your life and the lives of those traveling with you. 

• Check the ignition, fuel, exhaust, and cooling systems.
• Check fluid levels - oil, antifreeze, windshield washer, etc.
• Check belts, brakes, tire pressure and tread (purchase snow tires if needed).
• Replace non-working lights, keep them clean.
• Replace worn wiper blades.

Remember:  Ice and Snow, Take it Slow – slower speed, slower acceleration, slower steering, and slower braking. 

• Drive with your headlights on.
• Keep your windows free of fog and grime.
• Drive for conditions. Do not get overconfident with four-wheel drive. It will not help you stop any faster.
• Winter road conditions often result in longer stopping distances. Drivers should allow additional room between their vehicle and other vehicles. 

Learn more driving tips: Winter Driving

There are two types of preparedness kits you should have in your car at all times - a vehicle safety kit and a personal survival kit. Below are suggested items to include in each kit. Items should be stored in airtight plastic bags inside storage containers.  

Before heading out on any trip - make sure to have these types of items in your vehicle safety kit in case you break down.

A personal survival kit is also essential when out on the road whether it is a short trip or a long one. Keep items in airtight plastic bags inside a container and add other items you deem necessary.

• Blankets: Mylar and other
• Food: Choose whole grain cereals, nuts, energy bars and food with high liquid content; avoid food that makes you thirsty. Remember a manual can opener if you pack canned food.
• Water: 1 gallon per person, for a 24-hour period.  Write date on all food and water, replace every 6 months.
• More items for your kit: Personal Safety Kit.

Additional Preparedness Resources:

  In-Focus Resources        

Prepare In a Year

Getting Ready - Home Preparedness

Washington State Disaster Preparedness Month

National Disaster Preparedness Month

Wind Storm Preparedness

Summer Hazards and Back to School