MINNESOTA WINTER HAZARD AWARENESS WEEK

November 13-17, 2023 is Minnesota Winter Hazard Awareness Week. Beltrami County Emergency Management is joining public safety partners across the state to promote safety and well-being this winter season. Each day of the week will have a topic to remind residents of the hazards they face during the coldest months of the year.

Monday’s topic is Winter Storms: The National Weather Services issues a number of watches, warnings and advisories for winter weather impacts. Advisories are issued for impactful winter weather that doesn’t meet the thresholds for warnings. Watches are a “heads up” that significant impactful weather is possible while warnings are issued when it is likely to occur, is occurring or imminent. Wind chill products are also issued when the combination of cold temperatures and the wind result in dangerously cold conditions that can result in frostbite, hypothermia and even death.

Tuesday’s topic is Outdoor Winter Safety: While Minnesotans typically spend more time indoors during the winter, many find great recreation opportunities and enjoying the snow and cold. Always wear appropriate clothing with warm dry layers that are loose-fitting. If you are going ice skating or fishing, remember that ice is never 100% safe. General guidelines for walking on ice is four inches of new clear ice, while twelve to fifteen inches is recommended for a medium-sized truck. When snowmobiling, do not use drugs or alcohol and obey the speed limit.

Wednesday’s topic is Winter Fire Safety: Home fires increase during the winter due to a combination of spending more time at home, heating sources and holiday decorations. Keep combustibles away from heating equipment and open flames such as fireplaces or candles. Make sure your home is equipped with functioning smoke detectors. Do not overload electrical outlets and extension cords with excessive holiday lights.

Thursday’s topic is Indoor Air Issues: To conserve energy and reduce heating costs, homes are sealed up during the winter. This can cause indoor air issues including hazardous gasses. Make sure your home has carbon monoxide detectors and your heating systems are serviced and functioning properly. Do not use alternative heating sources inside such as portable grills or generators. Take measures to mitigate mold and radon in your home. The Minnesota Department of Health recommends all homes be tested for radon.

Friday’s topic is Winter Driving: Four-wheel drive doesn’t mean four-wheel stop. During winter driving conditions, use your headlights and slow down. Check your vehicle’s tires and always travel with at least half a tank of gas. If you are traveling, let loved ones know your route and travel plans. Check 511mn.org for road conditions. Build and keep a winter survival kit in your car. Avoid traveling when severe winter weather is expected. If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle. You can easily become disoriented and lost in blowing snow. Give snowplows plenty of room on the road. The typical snowplow weighs seventeen times more than the average car.

Check the Beltrami County Emergency Management Facebook page for additional information that will be posted through the week: http://www.facebook.com/beltramicountyemergencymanagement .

-Christopher Muller, Beltrami County Public Information Officer and Emergency Management Director