Winter COOOLLLLDDD Is HERE!

Having moved from sunny and hot Arizona, I have needed to take some extra precautions this winter to insure our family is prepared for the cool Utah weather! Cold weather is abound in almost every state of our nation. Here are some winter precautions to get ready for.
During a Winter Storm The following are guidelines from FEMA are for what you should do during a winter storm or under conditions of extreme cold:
Drive only if it is absolutely necessary. If you must drive, consider the following: - Travel in the day, don’t travel alone, and keep others informed of your schedule - Stay on main roads; avoid back road shortcuts
If a blizzard traps you in the car, keep these guidelines in mind:
• Pull off the highway. Turn on hazard lights and hang a distress flag from the radio antenna or window. • Remain in your vehicle where rescuers are most likely to find you. Do not set out on foot unless you can see a building close by where you know you can take shelter. Be careful; distances are distorted by blowing snow. A building may seem close, but be too far to walk to in deep snow.
• Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. When the engine is running, open an upwind window slightly for ventilation. This will protect you from possible carbon monoxide poisoning. Periodically clear snow from the exhaust pipe.
• Exercise to maintain body heat, but avoid overexertion. In extreme cold, use road maps, seat covers, and floor mats for insulation. Huddle with passengers and use your coat for a blanket.
• Take turns sleeping. One person should be awake at all times to look for rescue crews.
• Drink fluids to avoid dehydration.
• Be careful not to waste battery power. Balance electrical energy needs—the use of lights, heat, and radio—with supply.
• Turn on the inside light at night so work crews or rescuers can see you.
• If stranded in a remote area, stomp large block letters in an open area spelling out HELP or SOS and line with rocks or tree limbs to attract the attention of rescue personnel who may be surveying the area by airplane.
• Leave the car and proceed on foot—if necessary—once the blizzard passes.