Be Ice and Snow Aware

shoveling snow

Stay Safe this Winter

Cold temperatures can be annoying, as you’re forced to layer up before leaving the house. For those of us with glasses, the struggle of lenses fogging up is real! But temps below freezing can be dangerous, too, especially when white flakes begin to fall from the sky. Read on for some tips on how you can stay ice and snow aware throughout the coldest months.

Bundle Up

Always check the weather and dress accordingly if you’re going outside. Boots with a thick rubber sole will make walking on slippery surfaces easier, and insulated waterproof coats will protect you if you get caught in a storm. Make sure you have a hood or a hat to keep your head warm, and don’t forget gloves, especially if you’ll be working to clear snow—no freezing, wet hands here!

Ice and Snow

Tools of the Trade

If you know that snow might be hitting your area soon, prepare by setting out your snow removal tools where you can access them easily. Have a snow blower? Make sure it’s ready to go and in position to be used! Set out your shovel and scraper/brush right outside your door. Remember to be careful when shoveling—snow is heavy and can hurt your back if you don’t handle it properly.

Look Out for Limbs

Like we said, snow is heavy. Heavy enough to break limbs off of trees. These downed branches can fall on your house or your car, or even power lines. If you know of any branches that look like they could fall soon and cause damage, protect your home and take the initiative to have them removed before winter begins. Limbs and trees can also block roadways, so don’t drive distracted during or after a big storm.

Have a Backup Plan

If the power does go out due to snow and ice, your heat might stop working, too. Make sure you take warmth seriously and bundle up, even if you feel silly layering coats and blankets indoors. If you have a fireplace (wood or gas, as long as it’s not run by electricity), now’s the time to build a roaring fire. If the temperature in your home drops too much, consider safely finding somewhere else to go wait until your power is restored.

Ice and Snow

Keep an “I” Out (I = Ice)

Take it slow as you walk, especially on smooth surfaces. Look out for clear ice on your path; when in doubt, assume that there’s ice and tread carefully to avoid slips. The same goes for driving. If you think there could be ice on the road, slow down, use your hazard indicators to warn other cars, and give yourself plenty of stopping time in case your wheels start to slide.

Clear your Car

Make sure you scrape and clear ice and snow off your car before hitting the road. Ice can block your vision and make it hard to see where you’re going. Snow on top of your car can slide off and hit cars behind you on the road, potentially causing accidents, so always give yourself extra time to get your car ready if you need to head out somewhere.

Ice and Snow

Don’t Forget to Have Fun!

When you take the proper precautions, snow can be beautiful to look at and fun to play around in! Enjoy yourself safely so that everyone can make happy winter memories.

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Posted in Asheville, Charlottesville, Fredericksburg, Greater Louisville, Greensboro, Jackson, Lake Norman, Morganton, New River Valley, Raleigh-Durham, Richmond, Roanoke, Shenandoah Valley, Wilmington
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