"Alexander Rescue Squad's All Female Team Wins Technical Rescue Competition at State Convention"
"Winter Driving Safety Tips"
10 Safe Driving Tips for Winter
Driving can be dangerous especially during the winter. The good news is that most accidents can be avoided through defensive driving and safe driving practices.
1. Take corners slower -Icy and snowy roads are the perfect recipe for disaster for cars. There is less traction and it is best to take corners slow to avoid spinning out, over-steering, or under-steering.
2. Allow extra space between cars - In general, this is a good driving practice, but it is especially important with icy roads. Make sure there is plenty of space between you and the car in front of you accounting for the way your brakes perform on ice.
3. Drive slower for conditions -Did you know that you can get a ticket even if you are driving the speed limit if you are driving too fast for conditions? There is a good reason; weather conditions effect the way your car performs.
4. Keep your gas tank half full to avoid gas line freeze-up
5. Accelerate slower - Accelerating fast on ice will just make your tires spin faster in place. You have to gradually ease into driving and build up momentum rather than going from 0-60 as fast as you can.
6. Don’t slam on the brakes - Even though some situations tempt you to slam on the brakes, this can be a disaster with icy roads. Slamming on the breaks will likely make your car slid and impact much harder than if you brake slowly in a controlled fashion.
7. Check the tires - Keep tires inflated since cold weather can reduce tire pressure
8. Check oil, anti-freeze, and battery levels - It is always best to have maintenance and tune-ups completed before winter. If you have a problem in bad weather, the stress can be compounded easily.
9. Clear all windows of snow and ice - Cars have enough blind spots on their own. Make sure that all windows are completely free of obstruction of vision.
10. Wear your seat belt - Remember it's the law!
Courtesy of Safetyrisk.com
"Cold Weather Animal Safety Tips"
Cold Weather Animal Safety
As we once again begin to feel the chill in the air, it is time to consider the best ways to keep our furry friends safe during the colder months. Dogs and cats may have been blessed with natural coats to help them stay warm, but even they can experience hypothermia and frostbite. So to help your canine and feline friends thrive during the autumn and winter months, you should follow some precautions.
Provide Shelter - The first way to help your dog or cat survive the cold is to provide warm shelter.
Provide Food and Water - Animals should always have access to food and water, but it is especially important during the colder months.
Watch for Signs of Frostbite and Hypothermia:
• The skin beneath the fur is white and extremely cold to the touch immediately upon being frostbitten.
• The skin turns very red and hot a few hours after frostbite
• Skin dries up and looks scaly, and eventually, the skin sloughs off in the days after being frostbitten.
• Shivering, muscle stiffness and lack of coordination can indicate hypothermia.
Should your dog or cat experience any of these symptoms, take it to the vet immediately
Winter safety for animals is as simple as keeping your dog indoors in extreme weather, offering the proper amount of food and water, and monitoring for signs of illness.
