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The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has issued information to help people prepare for another New England winter season:
AUTOMOBILE SAFETY TIPS
- Have a well-stocked Winter Emergency Car Kit.
- Keep your gas tank at least half-full.
- Install good winter tires with adequate tread and pressure.
- Keep a windshield scraper and small broom for ice and snow removal. Keep all windows clear of snow and ice and keep your headlights and taillights clear, as well.
- Check your antifreeze, battery, windshield wipers and wiper fluid.
- Plan long trips carefully, listening to the radio or NOAA Weather Radio for the latest weather forecasts and road conditions. Consider Public Transportation.
- Let others know your timetable and primary and alternate routes. Allow extra time. The first ½” of snow is sometimes the most slippery. Allow adequate braking distance from the car in front of you.
- Slow down. Many times hazards like black ice are not seen until it is too late. Remember bridges and overpasses can freeze up sooner than roadways.
- Be extra alert. Snowdrifts can hide children or other vehicles.
- Yield to snowplows giving them plenty of room to safely do their job. Be patient and follow at a safe distance.
- Travel during daylight hours, and if possible, take another person with you.
- If a blizzard traps you in your car, pull off the highway. Turn on hazard lights and hang a brightly colored distress flag/cloth from your radio antenna or window.
- Remain in your vehicle where rescuers are more likely to find you. Do not set out on foot, unless you can see a building close by where you know you can take shelter.
- Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. When the engine is running, crack open the window slightly for ventilation. Periodically clear snow from the exhaust pipe.
- Exercise to maintain body heat, but avoid overexertion. In extreme cold, use road maps, seat covers and floor mats for insulation. Huddle with passengers.
- Take turns sleeping. One person should be awake at all times to look for rescue crews.
- Drink fluids to avoid dehydration.
- Be careful not to waste battery power. Balance electricity energy needs: the use of lights, heat and radio.
- At night, turn on the inside dome light so work crews and rescuers can see you.
- After snow stops falling, raise the hood to indicate you need help.
WINTER EMERGENCY CAR KIT
Flashlight with extra batteries
Charged cell phone/automobile charger
Basic first-aid kit
Necessary medications
Pocket knife
Blankets or sleeping bags
Extra clothes (include rain gear, boots, mittens, socks)
High-calorie, non-perishable foods (dried fruits, nuts, canned food)
Manual can opener
Container of water
Windshield scraper & brush
Fire extinguisher
Shovel
Sand/road salt/cat litter for generating traction
Tire chains or traction mats
Basic tool kit (pliers, wrench, screwdriver)
Tow rope
Battery jumper cables
Road flares/reflectors
Brightly colored cloth to utilize as a flag
Road maps
MEMA is the state agency responsible for coordinating federal, state, local, voluntary and private resources during emergencies and disasters in Massachusetts.
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