Winter Storm Tips

From the American Academy of Pediatrics

Preparing for Winter Storms

• Understand the hazards of wind chill, which combines the cooling effect of wind and cold temperature on exposed skin.
• Keep your car's gas tank full. This keeps the fuel line from freezing.
• Listen to an NOAA Weather Radio or a portable, battery-powered radio (or television) for updated emergency information.
• Move animals to sheltered areas.
• Avoid unnecessary travel.

• Stay indoors and dress warmly during the storm. Layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing will keep you warmer than one bulky sweater.
• Listen to a battery-powered radio or television for updated emergency information.
• Eat regularly. Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat.
• Keep the body replenished with fluids to prevent dehydration.

Dressing Children for Winter

• Newborn babies need to be protected from the elements. Dress them in several layers of light clothing to keep them warm. Avoid overheating.
• The rule of thumb for older babies and young children is to dress them in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same situation.
• Blankets, quilts, pillows, sheepskins and other loose bedding may contribute to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and should be kept out of an infant's sleeping environment. Warm, footed pajamas are preferred.
• If a blanket must be used to keep a sleeping infant warm, it should be tucked around the crib mattress so the infant's face is less likely to become covered by bedding.

Want to see more?

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• Talk about it!