Winter has come for the Lower Peninsula. Schools were closed across the state Monday, as was pretty much everything else.
With heavy snowfall and record-breaking low temperatures in the forecast throughout the week, here's what you need to know to stay warm and safe.
A Winter Storm Warning and Winter Weather Advisory remain in effect today. #MIwx #nwsdtx pic.twitter.com/AbU166yiRO
— NWS Detroit (@NWSDetroit) January 28, 2019
Drive with conditions in mind
Most cities have advised that people stay off the roads completely, but unfortunately that's not an option for some. So if you must drive, be prepared!
- Stock your car with emergency supplies, both for you (first aid kit, winter clothes, blanket) and your car (jumper cables, spare tire).
- Be prepared to dig your car out of a snow bank by always having a shovel, sand or kitty litter, and a tow rope. And keep a flare handy.
- Make sure you have at least a half tank of gas before going anywhere.
Avoid frostbite
Temperatures in the middle of the week are going to be dangerous, and at some times you'll be susceptible to frostbite after just 15 minutes outside.
- Dress warmly. Your face and and hands are most likely to get frostbite, so make sure to keep those areas covered with warm, dry clothing.
- Know how to treat frostbite. The first sign of frostbite might be redness or pain on any area of skin.
- Be aware of hypothermia, and seek medical attention if anyone's temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Keep your pets safe, too!
The snow might be fun for Fido to run through for a while, but dogs and cats can be affected by extreme winter weather as well.
- Limit time outside. Remember, if it's too cold for you, it's too cold for your pet!
- Dry your pets as soon as they get inside. Use booties or petroleum jelly to keep the salt and ice off your pup's paws.
Clear snow safely
With up to 10 inches of snow expected in some areas, clearing snow is a necessity. But it's important to take precautions.
- Don't overexert yourself. Shoveling snow can be a real workout, so it should be treated like one. Work slowly and take breaks if needed. The American Heart Association warns that though shoveling may be safe for most people, the risk of a heart attack is something for some people to keep in mind.
- Make sure you replace the gas in your snowblower. With snow like this, it may be tempting to break out the snow blower and get right to it. But after a long spring, summer, and fall of that snowblower sitting in the garage, be sure to replace last winter's fuel.
