99TravelSafe.com
74 – Winter Travel Safety and Precautions!
The Website For The Smart and Savvy Traveler
HERE are some tips to keep in mind while your family is enjoying the great outdoors during the winter season!
Check the weather report and heed precautions and advisories! If weather warnings suggest a severe wind chill or extremely low temperatures, consider avoiding outdoor activities until the weather improves! Also keep an eye on any official alerts or advisories regarding the weather conditions!
Ensure availability of accommodation and seek prior confirmation from hotel/guestroom of reservation before departing on trip!
Check availability of medical and health facilities where you are going!
Drive Carefully - be prepared (see tips 77).
Be aware of avalanche warnings also!
Be aware of symptoms and treatment for hypothermia, snow blindness and frostbite (see related tips).
Dress in layers. It is very important to keep warm and dry while enjoying outdoor activities in the winter!
When not wearing a helmet, wear a hat, and a neck guard.
Keep ears covered too. Noses can be covered with neck guard!
Stay away from ice-covered lakes and streams. Over the past decade several forest visitors have fallen through thin ice and drowned!
Be extremely careful when walking on ice-covered or slippery surfaces like parking areas and trails and especially steep slopes. One slip could result in a serious injury!
Be aware of the danger of drawstrings on children's outerwear.
Make sure that clothes are comfortable! Tight clothing restricts circulation and can increase chances of frostbite!
Wear brightly colored clothing - easier to be seen!
Take extra care when dusk or evening approaches as a result of reduced visibility!
Goggles protect eyes from cold, wind and snow!
Remove all drawstrings from children's snow suits and avoid use of scarves to reduce the risk of strangulation!
Don't overdo activities in the cold weather!
Try to maintain healthy eating and sleeping habits!
AVOID alcohol, tobacco, drugs and consider reducing caffeine consumption!
When it comes to winter travel, Pack wisely! Packing is key.
Do some research on the climate of where you are heading so you know what types of clothing to pack!
Bring items you can wear in layers to allow for temperature changes!
For cold weather climates, thermal undergarments, moisture-wicking socks, and a winter coat are essential!
Accessories like hats, gloves, scarves, and waterproof boots are essential and necessary to keep you warm and dry in wintery conditions!