MINNESOTA WINTER HAZARD AWARENESS WEEK 2013

Each year as the leaves start to change color and eventually fall, we know it is only a matter of time before the ground turns white and we transition to our long winter season. The week of November 4-8th, 2013 has been designated Minnesota Winter Hazard Awareness Week. Sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Division of Homeland Security Emergency Management, Winter Hazard Awareness Week is an opportunity for local Emergency Managers to promote safety and wellbeing, as well as encourage our citizens to take measures to become more resilient against the hazards the winter season brings with it. During Winter Hazard Awareness Week each day has a hazard topic to encourage discussion and preparedness.

Monday, November 4th: Winter Weather Overview. The National Weather Service is a partner in promoting Winter Hazard Awareness Week as many of winter’s hazards are directly related to the weather. Many different watches, warnings, and advisories are issued through the season depending on the weather impacts. Additional information can be found at the National Weather Service’s site: http://www.weather.gov/fgf

Tuesday, November 5th: Outdoor Winter Safety. As much as we may not want to, many of us will have to endure the snow and cold this winter. Whether it is for work or for leisure, dress appropriately for the conditions. Many people are injured and killed each year from exposure to extreme temperatures. If you operate a snowmobile, make sure you do so with all safety precautions and follow all regulations. Lake and river ice can never be deemed completely safe, remember it is recommended that at least four inches of new clear ice should be present before considering walking on ice, and over a foot of ice for small vehicles.

Wednesday, November 6th: Winter Fire Safety. During the winter months, cooking, heating, lighting, and holiday activities significantly increase residential fire threat. Fires that start in the kitchen are the leading cause of residential fires and injuries. If you install an alternative heating source, make sure it is installed safely and operating properly. If you deck the halls with strings of lights, don’t overdo it and overwhelm your home’s electrical outlets. Other holiday activities that could pose a risk include candles and bringing in a very flammable tree and neglecting it by having it dry out in your home.

Thursday, November 7th: Indoor Winter Safety. Making sure carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are operating properly and with fresh batteries could save your life. Remember, carbon monoxide is lethal, odorless, and tasteless. Other potential dangers during the winter season are radon and mold as we seal our homes to conserve energy and keep the cold out and the heat in, it also reduces the air exchange.

Friday, November 8th: Winter Driving. Don’t be the over confident driver who passes the string of cars driving safely only to find yourself in the ditch a few miles ahead. Snow and ice can cause dangerous driving conditions and can vary over short distances. Prepare your vehicle for the cold weather, including appropriate tires, checking the battery, and equipping it with a winter survival kit. If you must travel through severe winter weather, carry a charged cell phone if you have to call for help and let someone know your travel itinerary. Listen to travel advisories and never travel on closed roads. Allow snowplows and snow removal equipment enough room to safely operate.

The information above addresses some of the winter hazards we face each year. Additional information can be found on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s website as well as the National Weather Service’s Grand Forks Office website at the link above. We would also like to invite everyone to our Beltrami County Emergency Management Facebook page where we will be posting additional information during Winter Hazard Awareness Week, including an example of a Winter Survival Kit.

About Beltrami County Emergency Management: Beltrami County Emergency Management is a division of the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office and responsible for coordinating and implementing emergency plans to all hazards in Beltrami County, including natural and manmade disasters and crisis situations. Beltrami County Emergency Management liaisons with and coordinates activities of various emergency service volunteers and professionals within Beltrami County and neighboring jurisdictions. Beltrami County Emergency Management liaisons with State and Federal Partners, including the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Division of Homeland Security Emergency Management, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Christopher Muller

Emergency Management Deputy Director

Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office

613 Minnesota Ave NW

Bemidji, MN 56601

ph.218.333.8386

chris.muller@co.beltrami.mn.us

Office of SHERIFF OF BELTRAMI COUNTY

613 Minnesota Avenue NW Bemidji, Minnesota 56601

Phil H. Hodapp, Sheriff

Phone (218) 333-9111

Fax (218)333-8325