December Safety Post

It is vital to have a crisis management plan in place in order to protect you, your employees, your customers and your business facilities, as well as your company’s reputation.

Winter storms can be devastating, causing those affected to lose their business, inventory, property, and lives. Winter storms can affect more than those living in Northern climates. In recent history, freezing pipes and snow collapse losses have occurred in many Southern states. It is wise to be as prepared as possible in the event a winter storm threatens your business and your employees. You can take steps to maintain and protect your facilities by using the information contained in this action plan.

Everyone should carry a Winter Survival Kit in their car. In an emergency, it could save your life and the lives of your passengers. Here a basic start of what you should gather:
​
Winter Safety Vehicle Kit
-A small, compact shovel
-Windshield scraper and small broom
-Flashlight with extra batteries
-Battery powered radio
-Water
-High energy snack foods
-Raisins and mini candy bars
-Extra hat, socks, and mittens
-First aid kit and pocket knife
-Necessary medication
-Blankets and/or sleeping bag
-Tow chain or rope
-Road salt for traction
-Jumper cables
-Emergency flares
-Fluorescent distress flag and whistle
-Cell phone car charger

Kit Tips:
-Reverse batteries in flashlight to avoid accident switching and burnout.
-Store items in the passenger compartment in case the truck in jammed or frozen shut.
-Choose small packages of food that you can eat hot or cold.
-Stay away from salty foods that would cause thirst.
-The radio and flashlight should be the same type of batteries.

911 Tips:
-If possible, call 911 on your call phone. Provide your location, condition of everyone in the vehicle and
the problem you’re experiencing.
-Follow instructions. You may be told to stay where you are until help arrives.
-Do not hang-up until you know who you have spoken with and what will happen next.

Survival Tips:
-Prepare your vehicle. Make sure you keep your gas tank at least half full.
-Be easy to find. Tell someone where you are going and the route you will take.
-If stuck: Tie the florescent flag on your antenna or hang it out the window. At night, keep your dome light on. If you’re with someone else, make sure one person stays up to watch for passing vehicles.
-Avoid overexertion. Shoveling snow or pushing your car takes a lot of effort in storm conditions. Don’t risk a heart attack and/or injury. That work can also make you hot and sweaty causing your clothing to be wet. Wet clothing loses insulation value, making you susceptible to hypothermia.
-Fresh air. It’s better to be cold and awake then comfortably warm and sleep. Snow can plug your vehicle’s exhaust system and cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to enter your car. Only run the engine or ten minutes an hour and make sure the exhaust pipe is free of snow.
-Don’t expect to be comfortable. You want to survive until you’re found.

Contact Design Safety, LLC today to find out how we can assist in creating and implementing a cold weather safety program today!  Remember, safety starts by design!