Surviving a Winter Storm -- Sussex County Online, Delaware

Winter Storms

Surviving a Winter Storm ...

If you find yourself caught outside in a winter storm, there are several precautions you should take immediately to protect yourself from the elements:

Outside

Find Shelter -- Try to stay dry and cover all exposed parts of the body.
No Shelter -- Prepare a lean-to, wind-break, 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 the heat.
Do Not Eat Snow -- It will lower your body temperature. Melt the snow first and then drink it.

In a Car or Truck

Stay in Your Vehicle -- Disorientation occurs quickly in wind-driven snow and cold.
Run the Motor -- Run it 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.
Make Yourself Visible -- Turn on the dome light at night when running the engine. Tie a colored cloth (preferably red) to your antenna or door. Raise the hood to indicate trouble after the snow stops falling.
Exercise -- Exercising from time to time by vigorously moving your arms, legs, fingers and toes keeps blood circulating and keeps your body warm.

At Home or in Building

Stay Inside -- When using alternative 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, and cover windows at night.
Eat and Drink -- Food provides energy for producing body heat. Replenish yourself with fluids to prevent dehydration.
Clothing -- Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Remove layers to avoid overheating, perspiration and subsequent chill.

Winter Storm Preparation

Winter Storm Family Disaster Plan

Watches, Warnings Explained

When Caught in a Winter Storm

Hypothermia and Frost Bite

Mid-Atlantic Winter Storms

Causes of Winter Storms

Winter Storm Deaths

Impact of Winter Storms

Types of Winter Precipitation

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