The current snow storm and high winds have brought blizzard conditions to our region.  If possible, for your safety and the safety of others, it is best to avoid walking or driving in blizzard conditions. 

If you MUST go out on foot in blizzard conditions:

-- Wear reflective clothing and well-insulated boots with good rubber treads.

-- Stay on sidewalks where possible because they offer protection from vehicles.

-- When walking on an icy or snow-covered walkway, take short steps and walk at a slower pace so you can react quickly to a change in traction.

-- When a sidewalk has not been cleared and you must walk in the street, walk against the traffic and as close to the curb as you can.

-- Before crossing the street, look left, then right and then left again to see any oncoming traffic. Give drivers enough time to stop in icy conditions and, when the road is clear, proceed as quickly as is practical to minimize your time on the road.

-- Cross the street at an intersection. Crossing in the middle of the road, or jaywalking, is extremely dangerous because drivers don’t expect to see you there. This is particularly true when snow is piled high on curbs and medians.

-- Be on the lookout for vehicles which may have lost traction and are slipping towards you. Be aware that approaching vehicles may not be able to stop at crosswalks or traffic signals.

If you must drive in blizzard conditions:

-- Be on the look-out for pedestrians

-- Match your speed to the road conditions, even if it means driving slower than the posted speed limit. That way you can maintain control of your vehicle and have ample time to stop.

-- Constantly scan the road for potential dangers. Be especially cautious when blowing snow or heavy plumes of exhaust impair your vision.

-- Be vigilant. The biting cold forces pedestrians to bundle up with hats and scarves, which narrows their peripheral vision. They might not see your vehicle until it’s too late, so it’s crucial that you stay alert

-- When you do stop for pedestrians, understand that it takes time to cross icy streets safely. Give pedestrians the time and space they need, and don’t proceed until they’ve completely cleared the road.

If you get stuck outside:

-- Seek some form of shelter immediately. Blowing winds can cause the wind chill to reduce your core body temperature to dangerous levels. The risk of frostbite and hypothermia increase every minute you are exposed to the cold weather.

-- If you are wet, try to get dry. (this Canadian tip suggests lighting a fire, so I deleted that part)

-- Deep snow can actually act as an insulation from the wind and cold temperatures. Digging a snow cave can actually save your life.

-- Stay hydrated, but do not eat snow. You need to melt snow before eating it. Your body must still heat the ice and melt it. Instead, gather snow in some sort of container and attach it to your body for a slow melting process. A container inside your coat, but not directly next to the skin will speed the melting process.

-- When you do stop for pedestrians, understand that it takes time to cross icy streets safely. Give pedestrians the time and space they need, and don’t proceed until they’ve completely cleared the road.

OSHA Winter Storm Information

FEMA Winter Safety Information