About 70 percent of snow and ice injuries are from vehicle accidents. Storms can close highways and down power lines.
(JONATHAN KIRSHNER/COPLEY NEWS SERVICE)
A not-at-all-trivial question: What's the most likely way to get injured in a snowstorm?
Answer: Drive in it.
Snow and ice are beautiful to look at; ugly when viewed through a wrecked car window. About 70 percent of snow and ice injuries are from vehicle accidents. Heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region. Storms can close highways, block roads, down power lines and cause hypothermia.
If severe weather is projected to hit your area or is already in your area, stay inside. "If it's not necessary to be out there, don't," said Sergeant Mike Vorreyer with the Illinois State Police. Keep ahead of the storm by listening for the latest winter storm warnings, watches, and advisories on National Weather Service radio, or commercial radio and television.
Sometimes you don't have a choice; you have to pick up a child or go to work. If a trip is absolutely necessary, and it's possible, travel in the day, don't travel alone, and keep others informed of your schedule. Stay on main roads; avoid back road shortcuts.
Make sure your car is prepared well in advance. Make sure you have good all-season tires that can handle different types of weather. "The big thing is tire pressure," said Bill Law, owner of Check Point Tire and Service Center in Chatham, Ill. He also advises motorists to make sure the cooling system is clean, fuel injection is working, and the defroster and windshield wipers work.
If you do get trapped in a blizzard in your car, you should set your lights on flashing; hang a piece of cloth or distress flag from the radio antenna or window, or display a trouble sign. Turn on the vehicle's dome light at night when the vehicle is running so work crews or rescuers can see you. After the snow stops, raise the hood to indicate you need help.
Run the car's engine and turn on the heater for about 10 minutes each hour. When the engine is running, open a window slightly. This will protect you from carbon monoxide. You may need to clear snow away from the car's exhaust pipe. Use road maps, seat covers, newspapers, and floor mats for warmth, and huddle with the other passengers.
Do not leave the car to search for assistance unless help is visible within 100 yards. You may become disoriented and lost in blowing and drifting snow. If you are stranded in a remote area you may need to leave the car on foot after the blizzard passes.
Do minor exercises to keep up circulation. Clap hands and move arms and legs occasionally. Try not to stay in one position for too long.
© Copyright 2007 Globe Newspaper Company.
