Preparing for Minnesota winter

Winter in Minnesota is beautiful, but...Most Minnesotans, through years of practice and experience, are knowledgeable about winter weather conditions. We know how to dress, drive, be active outdoors and generally get through the winter with our lives, homes and property intact. Nonetheless, deaths and injuries occur every winter because people fail to take precautions. Carelessness, overconfidence, ignorance and innocence can lead to damage, injury or death from winter weather conditions.

To help Minnesota residents minimize risks and mitigate the hazards of winter, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety — in collaboration with the National Weather Service and other state, federal and non-profit agencies — sponsors “Winter Hazard Awareness Week” each fall to educate, inform, remind and reinforce the behaviors that lead to a warm, safe and enjoyable winter season.

Check these quick reminders of winter-safe behavior:

Dress to suit the weather. Thin layers of loose-fitting clothes will trap body heat and aid air circulation. Outer clothing should be hooded, tightly woven, and water-repellant. Mittens are warmer than gloves. Wear a hat — most body heat is lost through the head.

Check the weather forecast before going outdoors or traveling. Pay particular attention to windchill, which can create dangerously cold conditions. Monitor the National Weather Service forecasts, statements, watches, and warnings for the latest information on a developing winter storm.

Watch for signs of hypothermia and frostbite, especially in the very young and the elderly. Symptoms of hypothermia are shivering, confusion, and loss of muscular control. Frostbite causes loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, tip of nose, and ear lobes. If you see these symptoms, get medical attention immediately.

Pace your outdoor activity. Avoid strenuous activity in extremely cold temperatures.