Winter Weather can be deceptively dangerous even here in the North Central Texas Region.  Each year there are dozens of deaths across America due to exposure to the cold.  But add to that the number the injuries and fatalities from vehicle accidents, house fires, and exertion due to winter related circumstances and then we begin to see that winter can be a very dangerous time.

There are several things that you can do to prepare yourself and your home for the winter months.  Here are some things to keep in mind:
 

Before the Winter Weather Arrives

 Write a family disaster plan.
 
 Assemble a home disaster kit.
 
 Assemble a vehicle travel kit. (see sidebar)
 
 Familiar with the winter weather alerts. (see sidebar)
 
 Winterize your vehicle - check wiper blades, tires, lights, fluid levels, and belts.  Keep at least a half-tank of gas in the vehicle at all times.  In addition, have your antifreeze tested to make sure you have enough winter protection.
 
 Have your heating system checked and cleaned by a qualified professional.
 
 Make sure your smoke detectors are in good working order and that they have fresh batteries in them.
 
 Weatherize your home by insulating pipes, sealing cracks and other gaps that allow cold air in, and add weather stripping to doors and windows.
 
 If you do not have a carbon monoxide detector, seriously consider getting one. (see sidebar)
 

During a Storm

In your home:

Stay inside as much as possible.  When using alternative heating (fireplaces, wood stoves, etc) be extra vigilant to fire dangers.  Use safeguards and ventilate properly.  If you have no heat, close off unneeded rooms.  Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors.  Cover windows at night.  Eat and drink - your body will need extra calories to burn to keep warm.  Wear layers of loose-fitting clothes.  Remember your pets.  Make sure they have shelter too!

Outside:

Dress in several layers of loose-fitting clothes when going outside.  If you are caught outside in a storm, try to find shelter and stay dry.  Cover all exposed body parts.  If there is no shelter, build a windbreak or lean-to.  Build a fire and surround it with rocks to absorb and reflect the heat.  Do not over exert yourself.  The strain from cold added to heavy work such as pushing a car or shoveling snow can lead to a heart attack.  Sweating can lead to chill and hyperthermia.

In your vehicle:

When traveling, know the "safe routes" to take.  Make alternate travel plans in case bad weather causes trip delays.  Let a friend or family member know your travel route and destination. 

If you are stranded in your vehicle, stay in your vehicle.  Run your engine about 10 minutes each hour for heat.  Open the window a little for ventilation.  Tie a colored cloth to your vehicle antenna.  For time to time, move around and exercise your limbs to keep warm and the blood circulating.