It’s important to be aware of the hazards of winter weather and what you can do to protect you and your family, as well as make it easier for emergency responders to get to you to provide assistance in case of an emergency.

When snow blankets the area, getting around in even large vehicles and 4 wheel drive vehicles can be difficult. Try to keep parked vehicles off the roadway to allow snow plows easy access. Do not push snow on to the roadway or around fire hydrants. If you live near a fire hydrant, try to keep it clear of snow so that it remains visible and accessible.

Take a minute to walk around the outside of your home or business. Make sure that snow isn’t blocking doors or exits. From the ground, look to make sure furnace or water heater exhaust vents on the roof, and at ground level newer homes, are not blocked by snow drifts. Blocked exhaust vents can create a carbon monoxide hazard. Be careful to look for downed utility lines when walking outside after icing conditions.

In case of a power outage have plenty of flashlights and batteries for light. Avoid using candles. If you most use them, keep them in a sturdy holder that won’t tip over easily and away from combustible items, and never leave them unattended. Never use gas stoves for heat. This can cause a deadly carbon monoxide hazard. If using a generator, make sure it is outdoors and properly connected.

If using a space heater be sure that it is listed by a third party testing agency. Space heaters should turn off if they are tipped over. Maintain a 3 foot combustible free zone around the space heater at all times. Space heaters should be plugged directly into an outlet and never used with extension cords or power strips. Never use a fuel burning space heater indoors.

Prevent frozen water pipes by leaving cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate underneath cabinets or into concealed areas. Leaving a faucet on slightly may allow enough water to move and prevent the line from freezing. Insulate around pipes whenever possible. Electric pipe warmers or heat tape should be listed and tested by an independent testing laboratory and installed per manufactures instructions. Never use heat guns or open flame appliances to thaw frozen pipes. Know where the water shutoff is in your home in case of a break.

Make sure that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries and are working properly. Read and follow the directions for the installation and use of both appliances. They look similar, but function much differently.

In extremely cold weather even the simplest outdoor activity can be deadly if you are not prepared. If you don’t have to go outside…don’t! If you do go out, it is recommended that you wear multiple layers of loose clothing, protecting your head and hands. Exposed skin can be damaged in minutes if not protected. Even if it is going to the mailbox be sure to bundle up just in case of a fall or accidentally getting locked out of the house. The extreme cold can turn minor things into an emergency. This is also true for pets. Only let them out for short periods of time, and bring outdoor pets inside, or provide suitable shelter when it gets bitterly cold.

Small tasks can be physically demanding in cold weather and your body is already working hard just to stay warm, so don’t overdo it. Do not participate in activities that put you at risk for a medical emergency, such as shoveling snow unless you are in good health. When working outdoors take frequent breaks to warm up and stay hydrated, avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages. Make sure someone knows where you are and can check on you frequently.

Be ready for emergencies with a disaster supply kit. Have enough food, water, and medication for at least 72 hours or longer, and don’t forget to include pets in your planning. A disaster supply kit for the car is also a good idea in case you become stranded.

Extreme conditions can bring out the best in a community. This is a good time to be a good neighbor just by watching out for each other and providing assistance when needed. Acts of kindness are a great way to get to know your neighbors with benefits that can last long after the winter season.

For more information about winter safety and disaster planning, contact the Lee’s Summit Fire Department at (816) 969-1300, or go online to www.cityofls.net, www.preparemetrokc.org,or www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/pdf/cold_guide.pdf.