WINTER HAZARDS

Minnesota Statistics + Last winter, two people died after falling through the ice + Over the last 10 years, 43 people drowned after breaking through thin ice + Sixty-five percent of all ice drownings are vehicle related + Last winter, 10 people died in snowmobile accidents + Last winter, 70 percent of snowmobile deaths were alcohol or drug related Source MN Dept of Public Safety

Preparing for Winter Conditions + Working Outdoors + PPE + Tools and Equipment + On the Road + Medical Issues + Heat and Power Sources + Hazards

Working Outdoors + Don appropriate winter PPE + Wear appropriate clothing for conditions + Wear loose fitting, layered warm clothing with a hat and gloves + Keep fresh water and first-aid items on hand + Be aware of potential fire and carbon monoxide hazards if a portable heat source is used

Working Outdoors + Keep your clothes and socks dry + Use ice-melt or sand on walking surfaces in active work areas + Keep doorways free of snow and ice hanging from above or blocking from opening + Be familiar with the effects of wind chill + Take breaks to rehydrate and warm-up

Work Smart + Warm up muscles before shoveling by walking a few minutes and then stretch your arms and legs + Don’t overload the shovel – bend at your knees, stand up, and then pivot + DON’T lift, twist, and throw in 1 motion

Tools and Equipment + Store tools in a warm, clean location + Choose the right tools for the conditions + Remember, a layer of ice will make anything heavier

+Ensure vehicles and equipment are winterized by late fall +Keep fuel tanks near full +Keep the vehicle equipped with emergency supplies +Use extreme caution while driving, especially at intersections On The Road

Travel Emergency Tips + Stay in your car or truck – do not use radio or lights unless engine is running + Run the engine at 10 minute intervals for heat + Maintain proper ventilation by making sure the exhaust pipe is not plugged and leave the windows open slightly to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning + Make yourself visible to rescuers – tie a bright cloth to your antenna or door handle

Medical Issues + Recognize & treat hypothermia properly Inability to concentrate Poor coordination Slurred speech Drowsiness Exhaustion Uncontrollable shivering, followed by a sudden lack of shivering If hypothermia is suspected, seek medical attention immediately

Medical Issues + Recognize & treat frostbite properly First, the skin may feel numb and become flushed, and then it turns white or grayish-yellow – frostbitten skin feels cold to the touch If frostbite is suspected, move the victim to a warm area, then cover the affected area with something warm and dry – never rub it or plunge into hot water! Finally, get to a doctor or hospital as quickly as possible

Heat and Power Sources + Wood Stoves + Electric Space Heaters + Kerosene Heaters + Wood Burning Fireplaces + Portable Generators

Know the Hazards + Carbon Monoxide + Electrical Hazards + Fire Hazards

Summary + Winter can be safe as long as we keep the needed supplies on hand + Outside activities are safe as long as we dress properly including good traction shoes as long as we don’t over do it – seek medical attention if needed + Remember to keep your automobiles and equipment in good working condition and supplied with necessary items