Safety tips for snowy weather

By Julie Jordan
Published December 8, 2017

It’s snowing outside in parts of Georgia, but most Georgians lack the wintery weather knowledge of our friends in the North. How do you handle snowy, icy and slick weather conditions safely? First, try to stay indoors, but if you venture out, the Georgia Department of Public Health advises these safety tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

  • Dress warmly and stay dry.
  • Wear a hat, scarf and mittens.
  • If you have to do heavy outdoor chores, work slowly.
  • Avoid walking on ice or getting wet. Walking on ice is extremely dangerous. Many cold-weather injuries result from falls on ice-covered sidewalks, steps, driveways, and porches. Keep your steps and walkways as free of ice as possible by using rock salt or another chemical de-icing compound. Sand may also be used on walkways to reduce the risk of slipping.
  • Notify friends and family where you will be before you go hiking or camping.
  • Avoid traveling on ice-covered roads, overpasses and bridges if at all possible.
  • If you are stranded, it is safest to stay in your car.  

Travel is one thing Georgians are especially worried about during cold, wet, snowy weather. The CDC advises caution and offers these tips: 

  • Listen for radio or television reports of travel advisories issued by the National Weather Service.
  • Do not travel in low visibility conditions.
  • Avoid traveling on ice-covered roads, overpasses, and bridges if at all possible.
  • If you must travel by car, use tire chains and take your smart phone with you.
  • If you must travel, let someone know your destination and when you expect to arrive. Ask them to notify authorities if you are late.
  • Check and restock the winter emergency supplies in your car before you leave.
  • Never pour water on your windshield to remove ice or snow; shattering may occur.
  • Don’t rely on a car to provide sufficient heat; the car may break down.
  • Always carry additional warm clothing appropriate for the winter conditions.

Read more from the CDC on outdoor safety in a winter storm.