December brings us wonderful holidays, family gatherings, shorter days, and, inevitably, cooler temperatures. As we wrap up Christmas, let’s also prepare for potentially dangerous weather this winter.
Winter usually brings a lot of traveling, family gatherings, and food preparation. And while North Carolina is not known for its harsh winters, that doesn’t mean we can let our guard down.
Sleet, snow and freezing rain can cause slippery roads that are hard to navigate. If the roads are slippery, consider delaying your trip until conditions improve if you can.
If you must travel in wintry weather conditions, here are some tips to help make your trip safer:
- Drive slowly. It’s harder to control or stop your vehicle on an ice or snow-covered roadway.
- Increase your following distance so that you’ll have plenty of time to stop for vehicles ahead of you.
- Always wear your seat belt and ensure that everyone else in your vehicle is buckled up.
- Know whether your vehicle has an anti-lock brake system. Anti-lock brake systems prevent your wheels from locking up during braking. If you have anti-lock brakes, apply firm, continuous pressure to the brake pedal. If you don’t have anti-lock brakes, you may need to pump the brakes if your wheels start to lock up.
Just walking can at times be treacherous, whether we’re walking around the house or outside in inclement weather. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related emergency room visits for older adults.
Here are some tips to reduce the risk of falls:
- Take your time. Get up slowly and get your balance before walking.
- Keep stairs and walking areas free of clutter.
- Be aware of uneven surfaces like rugs and uneven sidewalks.
- Be careful on stairs. Use the handrails and make sure they are well lit.
According to N.C. Extension, it is important to stock up on some supplies in case freezing rain, sleet, or snow results in power outages and/or unsafe driving conditions: make certain one gallon of water per person per day is stored; blankets are available; and, extra batteries for flashlights are on hand.
Make certain nonperishable foods, especially sources of protein like peanut butter and nuts, as well as dried fruits, are available. Food is available in stationary free pantries as well as places like CareNet, for individuals who may not be able to get to a grocery store – or if the power is out and a grocery store is not able to take credit or debit cards, as was the case after Hurricane Helene.
Plus, generators need to be fueled and fireplace or woodstove wood accessible as possible heating sources.
For anyone needing assistance with electric bills, Bob Bourke, director at Macon New Beginnings in Franklin, advised individuals to first contact the Macon County Department of Social Services, (828) 349-2124. Macon New Beginnings may be able to assist with temporary shelter or assistance with electric bills; call (828) 202-3103.