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Winter Driving Safety Tips – Don’t get Stuck in the Cold!

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Old Man Winter has arrived and if you haven’t done so already, we recommend brushing up on your winter driving skills as well as your winter driving readiness.

Driving in Bad Weather

• Carpool: two heads are better than one.
• Be alert. Don’t drive when fatigued.
• Allow plenty of extra time for trips.
• Have alternative routes for how you’ll drive from point A to point B. Anticipate worst-case scenarios and prepare for them.
• Make sure your cell phone is fully charged and have the charger handy.

Tips for Readying Your Car

• Keep the gas tank at least half-full when driving in bad weather. You’ll be more prepared for periods of slow driving or when traffic stops altogether.
• Keep your wiper blades in excellent condition to ensure good visibility.
• Make sure your tires have good treads.
• Carry emergency supplies in your vehicle, no matter what the weather. A good emergency checklist includes a blanket, window scraper, flashlight, first-aid kit, shovel, jumper cables, flares, and non-perishable snacks.

Braking and Skidding

• When applying the brakes on a vehicle equipped with conventional brakes, avoid locking them by pumping.
• For vehicles equipped with anti-lock brakes, apply the amount of brake pressure needed and don’t pump the brakes.
• To avoid skidding, stay within the speed limit, and, in poor weather, slow down. Keep adequate distance between your vehicle and others.
• Slow down before entering turns or bends, steering steadily.
• While on icy or slippery roads, don’t brake heavily or jerk the steering wheel.

Snow, Ice, or Mud Conditions

• If your car is stuck in snow, ice, or mud, proceed carefully. Acceleration that is too rapid will spin the wheels and only dig the vehicle in deeper.
• Try to stay calm and turn the steering wheel gently from side to side to clear snow, ice, or mud away from the wheels. Lightly accelerate forward with the wheels straight ahead, alternating with a slow movement in reverse. This may help rock the vehicle out of its rut.
• Be aware that moisture on overpasses and bridges becomes icy more quickly than on ground-level roads since cold air is beneath these structures.

This is the perfect time of year to investigate ridesharing or mass transit as an alternative for your commute. Contact KMM to inquire about carpool or vanpool matches for your route, and get free mass transit schedules for your area. Why not start commute habits now that will benefit you all year long? It could make for a better commute!

Winter Magic – Hiking, Biking, and Walking

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Nature doesn’t stop when it gets cold outside and neither should you. This Winter, bundle up and get outdoors this winter to discover what Middlesex County has to offer.
We hope you use this guide as a blueprint or inspiration to explore.

MIDDLESEX COUNTY HAS…
Hiking – 6,300 acres of parks and conservation areas, perfect for hiking at any skill level
Biking- Cruise through historic towns, picturesque farmland, or urban greenways
Birdwatching- Over 300 species of birds, including some very rare migratory birds
Fishing- Enjoy year-round fresh or saltwater fishing spots
Snow Sports- If the weather permits, try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing
Art Tour- From vibrant murals to unique sculptures, check out our outdoor art
History Tour- Enjoy the new walkable history tour to see landmarks in New Brunswick, Highland Park and Piscataway
Don’t forget to take photos and tag #discoverMiddlesex.

For a complete guide, click on the link below

https://discovermiddlesex.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/outdoorGuide-Winter-2021-v4-compressed.pdf

 

Post pulled from Discover Middlesex.

Bonfire Safety

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As the air turns colder and crisp,  bonfires are a great way to enjoy the falling temperatures. There’s nothing quite as cozy as a fire on a cool night, but it presents safety hazards. Keep these tips in mind when it comes to fire use:

Never leave a burning fire unattended. Always make sure a fire is completely out before leaving it alone. In addition, keeping a fire in its proper place by using a fireplace screen or bonfire set up, helps keep the fire out of the open.

Fire can spread easily, so where and how you build your bonfire is important. Build the bonfire away from sheds, fences, and trees to avoid anything catching flames. It’s best to have a designated fire area that is in the clear open. When it comes to burning the fire, only burn dry material like wood and paper to avoid tons of smoke. Liquids on top of fires will either put the fire out or start huge flames, which can become dangerous pharmacieinde.com.

Most importantly, keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby. A fire can get out of hand quickly so it is always important to be prepared for emergencies. If a real emergency does occur, calling the fire department is your best source for safety.

And… we would be remiss if we didn’t remind everyone about candle use:

Candles are a great way to give a room that warm glow, but they can also cause fires. According to the National Candle Association, almost 10,000 home fires start with improper candle use. Never leave candles or fires burning if you go out or go to sleep.

Snow is the Forecast…

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Although winter comes as no surprise, many of us are not ready for its arrival. Winter storms or other severe weather conditions can cause serious damage. This winter season it is important to think about winter weather approaching and most importantly to be prepared for it. Here are some tips to help you get through the cold this winter:

 

 

 

 

Prepare Yourself

  • Stay indoors during the storm.
  • Walk carefully and cautiously on snowy, icy walkways.
  • Stay dry. Wear winter essentials like a hat, gloves, scarf, and jacket as a way of protection against the cold.
  • Check your homes heating system. Make sure that it is properly working.
  • Be aware of the current weather forecast. Know of any changes with the weather that could possibly make it worse.

Prepare your Car

  • Drive only if it is absolutely necessary. If you must drive, do not travel alone.
  • Clear snow off from the top of the car, headlights, and windows.
  • Top off antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, gas, and oil before you begin your journey.
  • Make sure your tires have enough tread.
  • Keep bagged salt in the trunk to melt ice or for emergency purposes.

The winter season can sometimes be a scary one. This is why it is important to be prepared for any type of weather condition winter may bring. If you are prepared for the hazards of winter, you will be more likely to stay safe and healthy when temperatures start to fall.

Old Man Winter Safety Tips

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Now that the winter has arrived, temperatures will be dropping and snow will be falling. Whether you’re walking or driving during the winter months, its best to be prepared so you stay safe.

Walk Smart. As a pedestrian, it’s your job to be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you know that snow is headed your way make sure to plan ahead. Before you walk out the door, make sure that you wear the proper footwear. Sneakers or snow boot are the best type of shoe for the winter weather. Be sure to take your time and don’t rush and look up when navigating the sidewalk. This method allows you to anticipate ice or an uneven surface. Along with taking your time, you should occasionally scan from left to right to ensure that you aren’t in the way of vehicles or other hazards.

Drive Smart. Injuries during the winter aren’t always from slipping on ice, but can also result from car crashes. The snow and ice do more than we think. Not being visible, black ice is the most dangerous of all to drivers. Always leave extra time to get to your destination. By taking your time and doing the speed limit can help ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. And be extra cautious in parking lots.  They are difficult to clear and the snow piles take long to melt. Always be aware of pedestrians, snow piles, and cars that may slide or skid on ice.

If you are a home or business owner, make sure sidewalks, walkways and driveways are cleared of any snow, ice or other slippery materials that could get in the way of the pedestrian and drivers.

No matter how well the snow and ice are removed or melted from parking lots, sidewalks and the roads, it’s imperative to walk and drive smart. Together, we are all responsible for our safety and the safety of others this winter season.

Take a Hike!

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Hiking is a great outdoor activity delivering benefits beyond scenic and fun. Unlike regular walking, hiking involves much more. Here are some safety tips to cover before you go out for your hike.

  1. Check the weather. Leading up to and a few hours before your hike, check the weather. The weather, especially this time of year, isn’t always predictable. It’s better to be aware and prepared instead of being surprised while on your hike.
  2. Pack the essentials. Nothing is worse than being on your hike and not be prepared for emergency situations. Some key essentials to have with you at all times are map/compass, sunscreen, extra clothing, cell phone, water, and food.
  3. Wear the right clothing. Painful feet can ruin any hike. Invest in high-quality hiking shoes and thick socks. Wearing layers is the best way to be prepared. You can always take them off and put them back on when needed.
  4. Know where you’re going. Before heading on your hike, make sure that you and whoever else is going is aware of where you are going. Showing up for hiking and not knowing where to go can lead to an unsuccessful hike. Go over the trail and/or trails that you will be covering that day, that way you can be safe and enjoy the experience.

Tis the Season… Safety Tips for Holiday Shopping

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Now that the holiday season is in full swing,  many of us will be checking our lists and heading out to the malls and town centers for holiday shopping. To help you shop safely, we’ve put together some Holiday Shopping tips.

  1. Before heading out to the big sales, map out the stores you plan to visit by trip chaining.  This not only saves on fuel, but it is also a most effective use of time.
  2. Something a lot of people forget when shopping is their own health. Have plenty of water and snacks with you in case your shopping takes longer than expected. Bring hand warmers for long outdoor lines.
  3. Parking lots are where most of the danger occurs during the holiday season. Don’t park between large vehicles. This might obscure your vision when you pull out and shoppers may not see you. Wear reflective clothing to make you visible in busy parking lots.
  4. Leave your car at home and take mass transit.  NJ TRANSIT serves many of the malls in Middlesex County and provides frequent stops.  Leave the driving to them and enjoy your shopping.

Wishing all of our friends a safe and joyous holiday season.

Winter Walking Safety Tips

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http://health.sunnybrook.ca/wellness/safety-tips-winter-walking-snow/
Photo Credit *

Now that the winter has arrived temperatures will be dropping and snow will fall from the sky. With snow comes ice, and with ice comes slips and falls. Mother Nature might be the one to blame for the sleet and snow, but who is to blame for the slips and falls?

As a pedestrian it’s your job to be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you know that snow is headed your way make sure to plan ahead. Here’s how:

Before you walk out the door, make sure that you wear the proper footwear. Proper footwear should place the entire foot on the surface of the ground, like sneakers or snow boots. You should avoid a smooth sole and shoes with flat bottoms.

While walking on snow or icy sidewalks or parking lots, always walk consciously. Be sure to take your time and don’t rush. People think that by looking down while walking helps, when really this isn’t true. Instead of looking down, you should look up and see where your feet will move next. This method allows you to anticipate ice or any uneven surfaces. Along with taking your time, you should occasionally scan from left to right to ensure that you aren’t in the way of vehicles or other hazards.

Injuries during the winter aren’t always from slipping on ice, but can also result from falling snow/ice as it blows, melts, or breaks away from awnings, buildings, etc. If you are a home or business owner, make sure sidewalks and walkways (and any overhangs) are cleared of any snow, ice or other slippery materials that could get in the way of the pedestrian.

Whether you’re walking to and from parking lots, between buildings at work, or even at home on your sidewalk, walk cautious and walk alert espanolfarm.com. Slips and falls are the most frequent types of injuries that occur during the winter season. No matter how well the snow and ice is removed from parking lots and sidewalks, it’s imperative to walk smart.

 

*http://health.sunnybrook.ca/wellness/safety-tips-winter-walking-snow/

Winter is Here!

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Car tires on winter road covered with snow

The winter is upon us and sooner or later, New Jersey will see itself covered in a freezing blanket of billowy snow. But as New Jersians, life doesn’t stop just because of a few flakes (or feet) of the white stuff. Getting your car “winter ready” before the first snow will ensure you’re ready to face the road ahead. Ensure vehicle fluids are changed, tires are checked or replaced, and ensure all exterior lights are in proper working order. Then follow these driving tips if you need to travel in the cold and snow:

  • Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Most vehicles keep the tire pressure information on the driver side door panel.
  • Check and replace (if necessary) windshield wipers.
  • Top off wiper fluid.
  • Keep your gas tank at least half full.
  • Do not use cruise control in wet, wintery, icy weather.
  • Avoid hard breaking in wet weather as this can make your vehicle spin out of control.
  • Look and steer in the direction you want to go.
  • The normal dry pavement following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds.
  • Keep non-clumping kitty litter or wood chips in the trunk of your vehicle. This will help your tires gain traction if you become stuck in snow.
  • When traveling long distances, make sure to keep a blanket, flash light, water, and snacks in your vehicle in case you become stranded.
  • When in doubt, stay home. If driving conditions make it extremely difficult to travel, please do not attempt to go out.

For more information on winter driving visit AAA.

The Winter Doldrums

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kmm.orgDon’t let winter weigh you down.  Lift your family’s spirits with a brisk walk.  A walk around the corner, to a friend’s house, to the park, to the skating rink or sledding hill, or even to school in the sunshine and fresh cold air can put everyone in a better mood. Sound impossible? Here are some winter walking tips to put the spring in your step.

  • Be role model! If winter walking is normal to you, it’ll be normal to your children.
  • Being warm is not just about clothing.  Start out with a good breakfast and drink fluids to stay well-hydrated.
  • Dress appropriately. Bundle up in coats, hats, gloves, and scarves, of course. But also consider warm, waterproof boots (snow boots) and snow pants for snowy or very cold days.  Dress in layers.
  • Walking is more fun with friends! Recruit friends and neighbors to join you.
  •  Short winter days means dusk comes earlier.  Be visible.  Consider carrying a flashlight or clipping reflective tags to coats and backpacks.

Spring will be here before you know it, and April is New Jersey Walk and Bike to School Month. Now is a great time to bring in KMM for a school Walking Safety Assembly and to start planning a Spring Walk to School Day. Contact Safe Routes to School Coordinator Peter Bilton at (732) 745-3996 to find out more.