While at Home: As the temperature starts to drop there are important safety tips to get you through the cold season. Year after year, homes are destroyed and lives are lost because certain safety precautions aren’t taken.
Keeping heaters too close to flammable materials or leaving a fireplace unattended overnight may have disastrous consequences. When using heaters, fireplaces and candles make sure the area around the heat source is clear of any flammable materials. It is also important to have working smoke detectors located on every level of your home and test them. By reading the warning labels and the instructions for your smoke detectors and heaters, etc, you can prevent the loss of life. Set up an evacuation plan for your family and make sure everyone knows the plan and even a backup plan.
While Traveling: Make sure to have sufficient gear to improve your trip and possibly even save your life, should you become stranded. You might just have to spend the night in your car. Traveling during the winter months could mean ice and snow. Having multiple layers of clothing available, to maintain body temperature is essential. In the event that you do need to stay in your vehicle in snowy and icy weather, ensure the inhabited space is sufficiently ventilated and that the vehicle exhaust is clear from any obstructions. This will reduce the risk of carbon-monoxide poisoning. Ensuring your vehicle is properly maintained will reduce your chances of breakdowns. Things to keep an eye on: battery, battery charging system, engine hoses, tire type and condition, tire pressure, spare tire, lights, brakes and windshield wipers and of course your fuel level. We always recommend keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle, however when traveling through colder weather, we recommend upgrading your kit to include at least: a flashlight with extra batteries, ice scraper, jumper cables, snow chains, blankets, warning/signaling devices, gloves, jacket, hat, drinking water, non-perishable food, basic first aid kit, a basic tool kit (with appropriate tools), medicine (as required), and a two way radio. Notify family and friends of the route you are taking and your estimated time line.
Children and elderly are at higher risk for frostbite than adults. The most commonly affected areas are the nose, hands, feet and ears. Make sure to have the proper clothing to reduce the exposure to the elements even if you are simply out in the snow for recreation. Please never leave your children in a vehicle unattended. Remember, put safety first and be aware of your surroundings, including the weather and environment to order minimize the risk of personal harm or injury. Remember the limits of yourself and your gear to avoid getting into a situation you are not ready to handle.
Cobra Tactical is located at 28910 Avenue Penn, Unit 210 in Valencia. For more information, please call 661-257-1406.