Health & Fitness
Caught In a Winter Storm? Survival Tips You Should Know
Being stuck in the car during a winter storm can be a scary situation, but if you keep calm and react wisely, you can stay safe until assistance arrives.
No one wants to imagine a scenario in which they’re stranded in the car during a winter storm. But it’s a very real possibility at this time of year, so Amica Insurance is sharing some survival tips to keep in mind until help arrives.
“Winter weather can strike without warning, turning a routine trip down the street into a dangerous trek through the elements,” said Lisa DeCubellis, a senior assistant vice president with Amica Insurance. “If you do end up getting stuck on the road, it’s important to stay in your car and out of the cold.”
Hypothermia and frostbite can lead to the loss of fingers and toes, permanent damage to the kidneys, liver and pancreas, and even death. That’s why Amica Insurance is offering advice from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to help keep you safe if you’re stuck in a winter storm:
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- Always stay in your vehicle. You will become disoriented quickly in wind-driven snow and cold temperatures.
- Run the engine for about 10 minutes every hour to provide heat. However, be sure to slightly open a window to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Turn on the dome light at night when running the engine.
- After the snow stops, open the hood of your vehicle to indicate that you need assistance.
- Tie a colored cloth – preferably red – to your door or antenna.
- Be sure to move arms, legs, fingers and toes to keep blood circulating.
“Remember to stay calm and follow these tips if you’re ever stranded,” DeCubellis said. “They just might help save your life or that of a loved one.”
