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what to do if stuck in snow storm

 

Outside

Find shelter:
  • Try to stay dry.
  • Cover all exposed body parts.
No shelter:
  • Build a lean-to, windbreak or snow cave for protection from the wind.
  • Build a fire for heat and to attract attention.
  • Place rocks around the fire to absorb and reflect heat.
  • Melt snow for drinking water.
  • Eating snow will lower your body temperature.

 

In a Vehicle

Stay in the vehicle:
  • You will become quickly disoriented in wind-driven snow and cold.
  • Run the motor about 10 minutes each hour for heat.
  • Open the window a little for fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked.
Be visible to rescuers:
  • Turn on the dome light at night when running the engine.
  • Tie a colored cloth, preferably red, to your antenna or door.
  • After snow stops falling, raise the hood to indicate you need help.
Exercise:
  • From time to time, move arms, legs, fingers and toes vigorously to keep blood circulating and to keep warm.

 

Inside

Stay inside:
  • When using alternate heat from a fireplace, wood stove, space heater, etc., use fire safeguards and properly ventilate.
No heat:
  • Close off unneeded rooms.
  • Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors.
  • Cover windows at night.
  • Eat and drink. Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat. Keep the body replenished with fluids to prevent dehydration.
  • Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing.  Remove layers to avoid overheating, perspiration and subsequent chill.

 

 

*This article was originally shared by Merchants on January 31, 2019.

The above is an excerpt from the article, “Winter Storms: Deceptive Killers.” For more information, please visit www.nws.noaa.gov.

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Merchants Insurance Group

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