In Cook County each fall we watch the beautiful leaves turn color and fall and enjoy some of the fall outdoor activities. But as the air turns crisp, we know that a Minnesota winter is soon on the way. Even though we are hearty northlanders, it is a good time to refresh our cold weather skills and ensure that we are prepared for winter challenges.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DPS-HSEM) partnered with the National Weather Service to sponsor the annual Winter Hazard Awareness Week.

Each year in November these agencies offer tips to assist families and businesses in preparing for and surviving winter.

Winter Weather Overview. The main weather threats in Minnesota are extreme cold temperatures, wind chill, heavy snow, and ice. We need to know and understand winter weather watches and warnings.

OUTLOOK: Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2-5 days. Stay tuned to the media for updates. 

WATCH: Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36-48 hours. Prepare now!

WARNING: Life-threatening severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. Act now!

ADVISORY: Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. If you are cautious these situations should not be life threatening.

Outdoor Winter Safety.  When enjoying the outdoors, we need to wear layers of loose-fitting, water repellant, warm clothing. Don’t forget the hat! 40% of body heat is lost from the head. Be aware of frostbite and hypothermia. Frostbite is the freezing of the skin and extremities on the body such as nose, cheeks, ears, fingers, and toes. In very cold weather the body can lose heat faster than it can produce it, the result is hypothermia. Warning signs include confusion, shivering, difficulty speaking, and sleepiness. Remember our pets during extreme winter weather, assure them they have adequate shelter and of course bring them indoors.

Winter Fire Safety. Many of us in Cook County use wood as an alternate heating source. Some things to remember when burning wood are: have the chimney inspected annually, burn only seasoned dry wood, assure the wood stove is properly installed, and make sure home smoke detectors are installed and working.   When using portable space heaters, make sure they are in good working order and keep three feet away from combustibles. Don’t forget to make a fire escape plan.

Indoor Winter Safety. Carbon Monoxide also known as CO is called the “invisible killer” because it’s a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. Install CO alarms on every level of the home and in each sleeping area. It is especially important to make sure the CO alarms are in working order. Symptoms of CO poisoning are very similar to flu or COVID-19, including headaches, nausea, fatigue, vomiting and disorientation. Cook County Emergency Management has carbon monoxide “What to do” refrigerator magnets available.

Winter Driving. We sometimes need to travel in winter weather. Here are some winter travel survival tips. Be sure to check the road and weather condition before leaving. Always keep your gas tank at least half full. Always share your travel plans with family or friends. Stranded? It is always safer to stay in your vehicle. A winter survival kit is recommended to carry in the vehicle and should include extra winter clothing, boots, blankets, flashlight, booster cables, and a shovel. Some salt/sand or cat litter could be used for tire traction.  When traveling, remain on main highways when possible and always beware of snowplows and other emergency vehicles.

The National Weather Service has great website https://www.weather.gov/wrn/winter_safety that offers a vast resource library for parents and teachers, fun activities for children and printable publications and brochures on various winter weather related subjects. 

Minnesota Homeland Security and Emergency Management offers additional information, checklists, and resources to assist in local education efforts. They encourage people, families, businesses, and organizations to use the information to review, refresh and share their winter safety knowledge. Check it out at https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/hsem/weather-awareness-preparedness/Pages/winter-hazarad-awareness-week.aspx

Enjoy our winter wonderland! Be ready, be safe, and be well.

County Connections is a column on timely topics and service information from your Cook County government. Cook County – Supporting Community Through Quality Public Service.