Emergency Preparedness > Announcements > Cold Weather Tips
Cold Weather Tips
The all‐University Crisis Committee reminds students, faculty and staff with the advent of cold weather it is important to remember to be prepared for a cold weather emergency when outside or driving. Here are some tips:
Outside
- Dress warmly, stay dry. Wear wind‐resistant clothing if possible, along with a hat and gloves.
- Understand wind chill. When there are high winds, serious weather‐related health problems can arise, when temperatures are only cool.
- Watch your steps. Walking on ice can be extremely dangerous and it can often blend into the pavement.
- Keep in mind that alcoholic and caffeinated beverages cause your body to lose heat more rapidly.
- Make your time outside as brief as possible. If you feel that you should get inside, do so.
Driving/Cars
- Make sure windows are clear of ice, frost and snow before you embark on your trip.
- Use main streets when driving, as these are the priority for city crews following a storm.
- Be flexible. Consider changing plans if the conditions warrant it.
- Expect slick conditions. Stops will take longer and turns must be taken at slower speeds.
- Inflate tires to the recommended pressure and have your vehicle’s antifreeze checked.
- Wear your seat belt at all times.
- Above all, if you aren’t comfortable driving in the conditions you see, don’t.
Additional cold weather tips are available at http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/.