Are you ready for winter?

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PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. (AFNS) --  If living in or traveling to a region that experiences snow and freezing temperatures, now is the time to make winter preparations.

Please review the following preparation tips:

Prepare a winter storm plan

Keep the following supplies on hand: Lantern/flashlight, batteries, non-perishable food, potable water, a heat source and a cell phone. Have extra blankets on hand, and ensure that each member of the household has a warm coat, gloves or mittens, a hat, and water-resistant boots. When a storm is predicted, remember to stay tuned for storm warnings by listening to NOAA Weather Radio and local radio and television stations.

Inspect fireplaces

Have chimneys inspected by a professional prior to the start of every heating season. Creosote, a chemical substance that forms when wood burns, builds up in chimneys and can cause a chimney fire. 

Take precautions with wood stoves

Follow manufacturers' recommendations for proper use and maintenance. Burn only wood, and be sure the wood stove is placed on an approved stove board to protect the floor from heat and hot coals.

Be cautious with space heaters

Place space heaters at least three feet away from anything combustible, including wallpaper, bedding, clothing, pets, and people. Never leave space heaters operating when not in the room or when going to bed. Don't leave children or pets unattended with space heaters, and be sure everyone knows that drying wet mittens or other clothing over or on space heaters is a fire hazard.

Vehicle safety kits

Vehicle safety kits don't have to be large and bulky. Depending on the climate, equipment can be added or omitted as needed. Here are some suggested items: Flash light and extra batteries, jumper cables, tire chains, road flares, a can of fix-a-flat, ice scraper, some basic hand tools, spare fuses, a clean towel or rag, a wool blanket (even if it becomes wet, it still provides warmth), spare gloves or mittens, a can of sterno, matches, candles, an empty soup can to melt snow for water, trail mix and a first aid kit. Extras include a foldable shovel, compass, signal whistle, Meals Ready to Eat, a tow rope, an extra jacket, a wool cap, wool socks and chemical hand warmers.

Winter driving

Inspect vehicles now to identify any potential problems. Check the tread depth of tires -- about 4/32 to 6/32nd of an inch minimum for driving on snow, test vehicles' coolant for correct mixture for the temperatures expected in the region. Fill the windshield wiper reservoir with a winter-rated fluid and inspect or replace windshield wiper blades. Check heaters and windshield defrosters, and be sure to always clear all windows of snow and ice before driving. Allow extra time when roads are icy or snow covered, and travel at a reduced speed. Expect other drivers to make mistakes and give them additional room. Remember, stopping distance on ice increases from 3 to 11 times as compared to dry pavement.

Stranded? Stay with the vehicle
 
If stuck in snow, dig out behind and underneath the vehicle to allow the car exhaust to dissipate. Keep windows and lights clear. Start the engine intermittently to keep vehicle occupants warm and prevent the engine from freezing up. Remember to use the lights and horn to signal for help. Don't leave the vehicle unless absolutely certain of where help is and the ability to make it there.

Don't rush, be safe and plan ahead.

(Couresy of Headquarters Air Force Space Command Safety Directorate)