Winter safety tips

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. John Koskela
  • 366th Fighter Wing Safety Office
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  Tis the winter season again. Be it at home, in your vehicle, on vacation, or enjoying winter outdoor activities, the 366th Fighter Wing Safety Office along with wing leadership, want all Gunfighters to take a moment to reflect on some key winter safety tips.

Home safety:
· Have a fully stocked first aid kit and serviceable fire extinguisher.
· If using fireplaces or wood stoves, check chimney flue for obstructions prior to use and clean as needed.
· Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are operating as intended. Replace batteries every 6 months.
· Have rock salt and a shovel available for sidewalks, steps, and entry ways.
· Keep a flashlight or a battery powered lantern with extra batteries handy and a battery powered radio and clock.
· Have matches and an alternate means of heating and cooking in the event of a power outage.

Vehicle and travel safety:
· Keep gas tank almost full to help lower the chance of ice buildup in fuel tank and lines.
· Check vehicle for leaks, belt wear; low fluid levels to include engine oil, radiator antifreeze, power steering, transmission fluid, and windshield wiper and washer fluid. It is best to use a sub freezing windshield washer fluid. Never use water to de-ice as shattering of the windshield may occur.
· Check tire pressure and wear and make sure they are within user manual tolerances to maximize tire grip to road surface. Also check tire chain serviceability.
· Have an emergency survival kit in vehicle to include blankets, cell phone with car charger, emergency phone numbers, bottled water, tool kit, collapsible shovel, flashlight with extra batteries, reflective emergency triangles and reflective vest for night use.
· Plan travel routes by listening to local television and radio channels or review available Department of Transportation road conditions updates.
· Slow down and wear seatbelts - Most winter driving accidents are the result of driving too fast and too close to other vehicles for the current conditions. Avoid speeding and buckle up. Use low gears to slow your vehicle and avoid using the brakes if possible. Four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive improves climbing traction but does not help stop a vehicle.
· If your vehicle breaks down, stay with the vehicle.
· Give family and friends trip plans to include when you will return.

The last key area to review is often the most over looked.
Winter outdoor activities safety:
· Dress appropriately for the weather. Have a hat, mittens (which are warmer than gloves), a scarf or other type of clothing to cover the face and mouth. To avoid hypothermia dress in layers.
· Avoid caffeine and alcohol during outdoor activities because they lower body temperature.
· Know the trails, ski slopes, mountain pass closures and warnings when participating in activities. All active duty members who intend to participate in high risk winter activities must fill out the appropriate Air Combat Command High Risk Forms.
· Have a first aid kit readily available.

Overall awareness is the key to winter mishap mitigation at home, in vehicles, during travel, and while enjoying outdoor activities. Airmen need to take caution or risk being the example of what not to do. Enjoy and be safe this Holiday Season and remember to have a wingman.