"Now is the winter of our discontent."
From "Richard III" by William Shakespeare
In preparation for winter's approach, Winter Weather Awareness Day will be observed Wednesday to promote awareness of safety preparedness.
Winter's advance is inevitable. Whether chilly temperatures and snowy landscapes foster discontent or enhance the spirit of the season, avoiding hazards is a sensible strategy.
Missouri's Department of Public Safety offers the following recommendations:
• Create a family emergency plan and prepare an emergency kit, including bottled water, canned and dry foods, battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, manual can opener and a first-aid kit.
• Outfit each vehicle with a separate winter emergency kit. Include a blanket, radio with spare batteries, snacks or energy-type food, jumper cables, flares, shovel, and sand or shingles to give tires traction.
• Be aware of the risks of exposure to cold temperatures. Protect against frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting clothing in several layers. Limit time spent outdoors in frigid temperatures and stay indoors, if possible.
• Prevent fires in the home. Make sure alternate heat and power sources, such as fireplaces, woodstoves, oil heaters and generators, function properly. Store the correct fuel for each in a safe location. Install carbon monoxide detectors throughout the home, and only operate generators outdoors.
• If possible, avoid driving when conditions include sleet, freezing rain or drizzle, snow, or dense fog. If travel is necessary, make sure cell phones are charged and emergency numbers are available. Check road conditions in advance on the Missouri Department of Transportation's Traveler Info Map: http://traveler.modot.org/map/. If your vehicle breaks down or slides off the road, stay with your vehicle and call or wait for help.
• Know the difference between a winter storm watch and winter storm warning. A watch means severe winter weather may affect your area within 12-48 hours; a warning means severe winter weather is in the area or is imminent and could be life-threatening.
Winter is a season of joy, celebration and beauty, but it also brings potential hazards.
On Winter Weather Awareness Day, prepare to avoid winter's perils so you may enjoy the season's blessings.