Preparing for the Storm

Over the past week, the talk of the town has been the winter blizzard that is set to hit tonight. Rumor is that Pennsylvania will get about 18 inches of snow, and have wind and snow drift. Schools are letting out early. Shopping center shelves are emptying out. People are taking precautions and you should be doing the same!

FEMA provided some tips on how to stay warm and safe during the incoming storm. The first suggestion is to stay inside as much as possible. We are hoping that since everyone has already stocked up on their food and emergency materials, that the need to go outside won’t be as great. However, we realize that you still may need to brave the storm over the weekend. So here are some tips:

1. Layers are essential! Wear light-weight, loose fitting, warm clothing, as opposed to one layer of thick material. The outer layer should be water resistant and tightly woven, so you can retain as much heat as possible.
2. Pair your layers. Adding a hat to retain body heat, scarf that can be used to cover your mouth, and gloves to protect your hands, is suggested.
3. Keep dry and covered. If you do have to go outside, make sure to change out of wet clothing immediately. Wet clothing does not retain heat. If your skin is exposed, it is more likely to suffer from the low temperatures.

One of the most troubling parts of a storm is the conditions of the roads. Chances are that the storm will leave the roads feeling some effect, so driving may be more difficult. If you must drive, make sure you are prepared.

1. No distractions. Clear off any snow off of the vehicle before proceeding. The hood, roof, and windows should be clear so that snow doesn’t obscure your vision.
2. Slow down. Decreasing speed and increasing the distance between your vehicle and others’ will also decrease the likelihood of an accident.
3. Use your headlights. This will increase your visibility for other motorists.
4. Tap the brakes. Don’t slam on the brakes because your tires may lock up, leading to skidding. If your tires do start to lock up, ease off the break.
5. Stay alert. Being aware of the conditions around you may help avoid an accident.
6. Keep informed. Make sure that your loved ones know your destination, estimated route, and departure time, so they can find you should something happen.

We know that you might need to go outside, whether to shovel or to preheat your car, but since older adults are more prone to falls, here are some tips to avoid slips in the snowy conditions.

1. Do the shuffle. When you have to move your feet, moving them only slightly helps with balance. Bending your knees slightly may also be helpful.
2. Side step to safety. If you must climb an incline, walking sideways (using side steps) helps with balance and stability.
3. Watch out for the ice! When walking, getting in or out of vehicles, or approaching stairs, keep an eye out for patches of ice.

In case you have to shovel – your kids or grandkids are probably snowed in too, so this one might fall on you – make sure to do it safely. Older adults are four times more likely to experience a cardiac – related incident when shoveling so these tips may be helpful.

1. Get in a good warm up. Ten minutes before going outside, make sure to stretch and perform light exercise activities.
2. Think small. When shoveling, small scoops are better because it decreases the likelihood of straining a muscle while trying to lift the snow.
3. Push it, baby. When shoveling, pushing is better than lifting, so try to do as much pushing as possible. However, if you do have to lift, make sure to do it properly. Squat with your legs and lift with your legs, not back. Do not bend at the waist and do not twist.
4. Twist and shout. If you try to throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side, you may find yourself doing the “twist and shout”. Twisting may cause stress on your back.
5. Gimme a break! Listen to your body, if you are tired or feel overexerted, take a break.