Make sure to be winter ready before bad weather strikes
As winter approaches and before colder temperatures set in, now is the perfect time to plan and be prepared for the upcoming season. To help encourage everyone to be winter ready, Gov. Tony Evers has declared Nov. 18-22, as Winter Weather Awareness Week in Wisconsin.
“Winter weather can lead to dangerous conditions, including snowstorms, icy roads and below freezing temperatures,” said Greg Engle, Wisconsin Emergency Management administrator. “By planning ahead, we can ensure families and communities are safe during the colder winter months.”
Being aware of weather conditions is essential for being prepared. The National Weather Service (NWS) and other reliable local sources, will have forecast information to inform of potential inclement weather. Recently, the NWS simplified their cold weather terminology.
Wind Chill Watches were renamed to an Extreme Cold Watch; Wind Chill Warnings were renamed to an Extreme Cold Warning; and Wind Chill Advisory was renamed a Cold Weather Advisory These changes are part of a nation-wide effort to simplify the amount of hazard headlines the NWS has.
Extreme cold temperatures can be dangerous for many people, leading to cold-related illnesses and injuries, such as hypothermia and frostbite. There were 45 cold-related deaths in the state, during the winter months of 2023-24, according to preliminary data from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. According to that data, there were 861 emergency department visits and 225 hospitalizations in the state, becaus of cold-related illnesses. “Getting ready for snow and bitter cold, before they hit, can help prevent trips to the emergency room and it might even save a life,” said Paula Tran, state health officer. “During cold snaps, it’s especially important to check on neighbors and loved ones, to make sure they’re warm enough where they are and help get them to a warm space, if needed.”
When dangerously cold temperatures arrive, it’s important to follow extreme cold warnings and minimize time outdoors, including pets. If outside, dress for the weather and make sure to cover exposed skin, to reduce the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
Make sure to wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing, instead of a single heavy layer. Outerwear should be tightly woven and water repellant. Call 211 or visit 211wisconsin.communityos.org, to find local warming centers and free winter clothing outlets.
Finally, take precautions to avoid slips, trips and falls in icy conditions, and snow shoveling injuries.
Ice and snow on the roads are a major threat to drivers throughout the state, causing thousands of motor vehicle crashes each year. Preliminary data from the Wisconsin State Patrol, shows nine people were killed and 2,262 were injured in the state, last winter, from crashes involving winter road conditions.
“We all have a responsibility to protect each other and our plow drivers, who work long hours, to keep roads clear and help us get where we need to go,” said WisDOT secretary Kristina Boardman. “We ask drivers to remember the basics: slow down, maintain extra following distance from other vehicles and avoid distractions, so you can focus on getting to your destination safely.”
Check 511 Wisconsin, to stay up-to-date on road conditions. 511 Wisconsin is a free website and mobile app, that provides traffic and route-specific information.
At home or in the car, winter emergency kits should include items such as food, water, a flashlight and batteries, and blankets. In the vehicle, include a snow shovel, extra gloves and hats, cell phone charger, and kitty litter or sand, to help give wheels traction on icy roads, if the vehicle gets stuck.
To prepare for winter storms, stock up on additional supplies and have a plan for what to do if losing power at home. Plan for extra batteries and other alternative power sources for needs, including power banks or a generator. Keep generator safety in mind while it is in operation, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards.
Generators should be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages. Make sure to have working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home and follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
According to the NWS, Wisconsin experiences an average of three to six winter storms during the season. Last winter, the highest one-day snowfall total in the state, was 17 inches, while the coldest temperature recorded in Wisconsin, last winter, was -18 degrees.
