| Contents |
| The Wind Chill Factor |
| Winter Weather Safety |
| Winter Weather Travel |
The term ''wind chill factor'' is widely used in news and weather reports during the winter months, and it's usually misunderstood as to what it is.
For example, you might hear a report that Minneapolis has a temperature of 12 degrees, and a wind chill factor of 20 degrees below zero. Does this mean that the air temperature changes with a strong wind??
No. Whatever the air temperature may be, it will not change. If it is 20, it will remain 20, unless other influences exert the change. The wind chill simply tells how fast you will cool to the air temperature: at a temperature of 20, with a certain amount of wind, the exposed parts of your body will cool down to twenty as rapidly as if the temperature were 30 degrees below zero (or some other figure, depending upon wind velocity). This is especially important in the prevention of cold weather injuries such as frostbite; since the stronger the wind, the faster you lose a protective warm air layer around your body, & the quicker the cold will do the damage.
To protect yourself in cold weather, dress in layers of clothing, cover all exposed skin, and work in short intervals...giving your body time to warm back up. Wind Chill Advisories are issued when the Wind Chill factor falls below 0 degrees. The colder it gets, little additional chilling affect occurs, but frostbite can occur much quicker...with exposed skin freezing in seconds.
1. Dress to fit the season. If you spend much time outdoors, wear loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing in several layers. Layers can be removed to prevent perspiring and subsequent chill. Outer garments should be tightly woven, water repellent, and hooded. The hood should protect much of your face, and cover your mouth...to ensure warm breathing, and protect your lungs from the extremely cold air. Remember, that entrapped, insulating air, warmed by body heat...is the best protection against cold. Layers of protective cloting are more effective and efficient, than single layers of thick clothing. Mittens, snug at the wrist...are better protection than fingered gloves. Special attention should be given to your feet...hands and head. A hat is very important since most of body heat is lost through the head.
2. Stay indoors during storm and cold snaps, unless in peak physical condition. If you must go out, avoid overexertion and alcoholic beverages in the extreme cold. Be sure to check on other family members...neighbors and the elderly, as well as your pets and livestock. If you must shovel snow, USE EXTREME CAUTION!! Shoveling snow can be the equivalent of lifting several upright pianos!! If you're not in good health, shoveling snow could lead to a heart attack!! It's best to use a snowblower, or have someone in better condition do it for you.
3. In your house...close drapes and curtains for extra insulation. If you are planning on using a portable heater...be careful and keep all objects away from the heater, to avoid starting a fire. Prevent fire hazards due to overheated coal or oil burning stoves, fireplaces, heaters, or furnaces.
4. Stay ahead of a winter storm by listening to the latest weather warnings and bulletins from NOAA Weather Radio (162.40 to 162.55 Mhz), local radio and TV, or The Weather Channel (cable TV). Check battery powered equipment before the storm arrives. A portable radio or television set may be your only contact with the world outside the winter storm. Also, check emergency cooking facilities and flashlights.
5. Check your supply of heating fuel. Fuel carriers may not be able to travel if a winter storm buries your area in snow. Also, check your food, and stock an extra supply. Your supplies should include food that requires no cooking or refrigeration in case of power failure...which is more likely if an ice storm hits your area. Rural residents should make necessary trips for supplies before the storm develops or not at all. Arrange for emergency heat supply in case of power failure. Be sure camp stoves and lanterns are filled.
6. Of most importance, keep in touch with relatives and friends...particularly the elderly. The elderly are frequent victims of hypothermia...primarily as a result of cool indoor temperatures...not from prolonged exposure out of doors. Many older individuals have a diminished skin sensation, and are often unaware that they are even cold. If left alone, they can develop hypothermia in the course of a few days.
* Ignition system, heater, battery, brakes perfectly adjusted, lights, wiper blades, tire tread, defroster, cooling system, snow tires installed, lubrication, chains, exhaust system tight, antifreeze, and winter grade oil.
* Keep water out of your fuel by maintaining a full tank of gasoline. Always fill your gasoline tank before entering open country...even for a short distance.
* Plan your travel, and select primary and alternate routes. Try not to travel alone...two or three persons is preferable. Travel in convoy with another vehicle, if possible. Drive carefully and defensively.
* Be equipped for the worst. Carry a winter storm survival kit...especially if cross country travel is anticipated. Winter travel by automobile is serious business. Take your travel seriously. If the storm exceeds or even tests your limitations, seek available refuge and shelter immediately.