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As Winter Approaches, Red Cross Offers Seasonal Advice While other portions of the country, including Buffalo, have already experienced snow along with cold winds and ice that come along for the ride, New York City and surrounding suburbs are just warming up to the thought of preparing for cold temperatures. Winter officially begins Thursday, December 21, and the American Red Cross in Greater New York (ARC/GNY) advises New Yorkers to prepare now, before the first snowflake falls here, for the deep freeze, blustery storms, the slipping and sliding, along with fighting off that flu bug. "Light or heavy snow, ice, sleet, freezing rain and bone-chilling winds can cause havoc with your health and driving" said Jonathan Gabriel, director, American Red Cross in Greater New York-Brook-lyn."Prepare now to minimize traffic accidents, eliminate the potential of a fire from improperly installed home heaters, and avoid overexertion, exposure, hypothermia and frostbite." Weather forecasters are predicting that winter temperatures will be slightly below normal this year, on average, with near-normal precipitation and above-normal snowfall throughout the Atlantic Ocean corridor region along the coast from Massachusetts to Virginia. February could be the coldest month with the most snow. If there is any consolation as temperatures begin to dip, forecasters indicate that the spring season could arrive early, with temperatures slightly above normal, on average, from mid-March through May. Until then, prepare for winter by following some simple guidelines. Learn about additional ways to prepare for winter and flu at www.nyredcross.org. Learn about Red Cross first aid, CPR, emergency preparedness and other classes in Brooklyn by calling 1-718-330-9200. Essential winter supplies include: *First aid kit and essential medications. *Battery-powered NOAA Weather radio, flashlight, and extra batteries. *Canned food and hand-operated can opener. *Bottled water (at least one gallon of water per person per day to last at least three days). *Extra warm clothing - including boots, gloves and hat. *A disaster supplies kit for your car that includes blankets, food, flares, chains, gloves and first aid supplies. Winterize the car and have a full tank of gas. Know your weather terms: *A winter storm WATCH means a winter storm is possible for the area. *A winter storm WARNING means a winter storm is headed for the area. *A blizzard WARNING means strong winds, blinding wind-driven snow and dangerous wind chills. If you do get stuck while driving: *Stay with your car. Do not try to walk to safety. Pull off the road and display flashers. *Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna or side view mirror for rescuers to see. *Start and heat the car for about 10 minutes every hour and leave the overhead light on while the engine is running. *Move arms and legs to maintain circulation and help you remain alert. *Keep one window slightly open (away from blowing wind) to let in air. Safety tips for shoveling snow: *This is physically strenuous work. Do not shovel snow unless you're in good physical condition. *Pace yourself and take frequent breaks. *Lift with your leg muscles, not your back; bend at the knees. *Drink plenty of water. *Fresh snow is easier to shovel than snow that is partly melted or has become packed-down. *Push snow forward instead of scooping and lifting it; push or pick up small amounts at a time. *Wear layers of clothing, and keep hands and feet warm. *If you experience chest or arm pain, stop imme- diately and go indoors. After a winter storm: *Avoid driving and other travel until conditions have improved. *Check on physical damage to your home. *Report downed power lines and broken gas lines immediately. *Check on neighbors who may require special assistance. Try to avoid cold and flu: *Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Try not to use your hand to cover your mouth because you can spread germs when you touch other surfaces. Use tissues and toss immediately. *Wash your hands frequently. Antibacterial soap and hot water kills germs. *Use hand sanitizers. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer gels can be used when you can't get to a sink. *Keep surfaces clean. Stock up on antibacterial wipes for car, home and office. *Avoid close contact. If you have the flu, stay home from work or school to avoid spreading the illness to others. Likewise, If you notice that someone nearby is sick, avoid close contact. *Get a flu shot. The best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated each year. The elderly, children, pregnant women and people with chronic medical conditions are most vulnerable, and should receive annual flu shots. *Maintain healthy habits. Smoking and excessive drinking can weaken the body's ability to fight disease. Serve nutritious whole foods to help boost immunity to infections and viruses. For more information, call 1-877-REDCROSS (1-877-733-2767), or visit www.nyredcross.org.
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