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- When Caught In a Winter Storm
When Caught In a Winter Storm
Find Shelter
- Try to stay dry
- Cover all exposed body parts
No Shelter
- Build a lean-to, windbreak 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
Melt Snow for Drinking Water
Eating snow will lower your body temperature.
Stay in Your Vehicle
- You will become quickly disoriented in wind-driven snow and cold.
- Run the motor 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.
Be Visible to Rescuers
- Turn on the dome light at night when running the engine.
- Tie a colored cloth, preferably red, to your antenna or door.
- After snow stops falling, raise the hood to indicate you need help.
Exercise
From time to time, move arms, legs, fingers, and toes vigorously to keep blood circulating and to keep warm.
Stay Inside
When using alternate 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
- Cover windows at night
- Eat and drink. Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat. Keep the body replenished with fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Remove layers to avoid overheating, perspiration and subsequent chill.