Tips for Surviving the Cold

What to do when the weather outside is frightful

If you have even been in chilly situation, you know it isn’t too comfortable. Extremities can freeze, frostbite can set in and even death can occur. Weather you get stranded on the road while driving, your heat and electricity goes out or your camping trip ended up being in colder temperatures than usual, here are a few tips for keeping safe from the bone-chilling elements of Mother Nature’s fury.

Be prepared for winter storms

It’s always a great idea to be prepared in every situation, even the chilly ones. Here are a few supplies to check off your preparedness list when power and heat goes out or you just happen to be camping outdoors during a harsh winter storm:

· Candles

· Waterproof matches

· Oil lantern

· Weather or space blanket

· Extra blankets

· Gloves

· Hats

· Warm socks

· Thermal clothing

· Heavy coats

· Portable grill

· Gas-powered generator

· Extra gas

· Canned and non-perishable goods

· Bottled water

· Flashlights

· Batteries

· Battery powered radio

· Non-electric can opener

· Scarf

· Earmuffs

· GPS device (camping)

· High-quality, artic snow tent (camping)

· Hand and foot warmers

Another good tip is to fill your bathtub with water beforehand, just in case the water stops running. Also if food starts to thaw in the fridge or freezer, stick it outside in the snow.

If you are out camping, be sure to let someone else know where and how long you will be away for.

Be prepared on the chilly road

It never hurts to have extra equipment with you in case of emergencies. Here are a few things to carry in your trunk on those cold wintery days:

· Weather blanket

· Portable shovel

· Tire traction device, such as a Go Treads tire mat

· Gloves

· Extra sweater or sweatshirt

· Boots

· Car adaptor charger for cell phones

· Road flares

· Jumper cables

· GPS device

Other advice

Here are a few other things to keep in mind when it comes to the cold:

· Don’t stop moving; a higher heart rate keeps the body warmer

· Hug someone; body heat can help

· Stay out of the wind

· Drink a warm beverage

· Drink a caffeinated beverage

· Stay dry

Have any other tips for keeping warm? Let us know!

~Charlene Marie