Extreme Weather Safety

Staying Safe in Extreme Weather Conditions

Extreme weather can cause unexpected hazards. Fortunately, we have some tips on staying safe in a variety of weather situations.

Extreme Weather Tips

Heat in Vehicles

Here are some things to know when dealing with extreme heat in a vehicle:

• Never leave a child unattended in a hot car.
• Even on mild days, vehicles can heat to deadly temperatures.
• Rolling the windows down is not enough to keep a car cool on a hot day.
• On an 80-degree day, a car can reach over 115 degrees in just 30 minutes.
• A child's body temperature to rise three to five times faster than an adult.
• Keep cars locked when unattended.
• If you see a child left in the car, call 911 immediately.
• Teach children to honk the horn if they ever get stuck in the car.

High Temperatures

The three most common heat related injuries are sunburn, dehydration and heat stroke. Heat stroke can be fatal if not taken seriously. These tips will help avoid these serious events:

• Protect your skin with sunscreen and wear light, breathable clothing, or a hat.
• Wet a towel to drape across your neck when working in high heat.
• Take breaks and sit in the shade when possible.
• Stay Hydrated with water and electrolytes.
• Avoid alcohol or sugars, these can dehydrate you quickly.
• Check the weather and plan accordingly.
• You are at the highest risk of heat stroke after your first experience.

Snow and Ice

The most common injury related to winter weather is falling on snow and ice. These falls account for 25% of all hospital admissions. Here are some ways to avoid this occurrence:

• On ice and snow, walk like a penguin to keep your balance and avoid slipping and falling.
• Make sure you have something you can hold on to, like a rail or fence.
• Avoid getting out in winter weather, unless it's an emergency.
• Dress appropriately and wear shoes with good grip.
• Be extra cautious when walking pets on a leash.
• Always wipe your feet before entering buildings.
• Remain focused on your terrain.
• Elevated walkways like bridges are more likely to accumulate ice.

Cold Temperatures

Apart from falls, the leading injuries caused by cold weather are hypothermia and frostbite. Hypothermia is dangerous because it affects both mobility and brain function, which can be fatal. Here are some tips on staying safe in cold weather:

• Dress appropriately, wear layers including coat, scarf, hat, gloves and boots.
• Wear wicking base layers to pull moisture away from the body.
• Cover hands, head & feet to keep heat from escaping.
• Avoid alcohol, it impairs the body’s ability to recognize symptoms.
• Sweat and exhaustion make you more susceptible to hypothermia.
• Hydration is very important to preventing hypothermia.
• Hand warmers are useful for warming extremities.

Disaster Preparedness

Natural disasters in Missouri can vary from tornadoes, ice and snow, or thunderstorms. Being prepared is key to staying safe. Here are some tips to prepare for a natural disaster or storm:

• Stay indoors unless it’s an emergency.
• Keep water, gasoline, canned food and wood for a fireplace available.
• Keep basic survival supplies in your vehicle.
• Monitor emergency service broadcasts.
• Know the safest place in your home to shelter in case of a tornado.
• Keep a first aid kit in your home and car.
• Have flashlights and spare batteries available.
• Make sure your family knows where to meet in an emergency.