Winter storm safety tips

The City of Cape Girardeau and the American Red Cross offer the following safety tips for extreme winter weather.

Home safety tips

* If you have a fire hydrant in your yard, please keep it cleared.

* Keep extra batteries for radios and check battery operated power equipment.

* Keep an extra supply of food in the house, especially food that requires no cooking in case of a power failure.

* Keep blankets, clothing, curtains and furniture and anything that might catch fire away from portable heaters. Likewise, unplug heaters when not in use. Never use charcoal to heat your house because it gives off deadly amounts of carbon monoxide.

* Make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector in your home.

* Dress appropriately. Wear several layers of light-weight, warm clothing. Make sure outer garments are tightly woven and/or waterproofed. WEAR head gear and mittens which give better protection than fingered gloves.

* Don't overdo it when shoveling the snow!

If the electricity is Off:

* First use up the perishable food and foods from the refrigerator.

* Second, use up foods from the freezer. Foods in a well-insulated freezer won't begin to

spoil for several days. Open your freezer as infrequently and for the shortest time possible.

* Third, begin to use non-perishable foods and staples.

* For cooking, use charcoal or camp stoves, BUT ONLY OUTDOORS. Candle warmers, chafing dishes and fondue pots can also be used. Canned foods can be heated in the can after removing the paper label and opening it.

Safety tips for travel

Drive defensively! When trying to stop on snow or ice, use brakes lightly. Be aware of your surroundings.

Travel smart! Plan your trip, don't drive alone and let someone know your travel plans, route and estimated arrival time.

Drive carefully! If you are driving in a storm and the intensity increases, seek shelter off the road. Use road maps, seat covers and newspapers to help provide additional insulation if you are trapped inside your car in a winter snow storm. Do NOT leave your car unless you see a building close by where you know you can take shelter. Once a storm is over, you may need to leave the car to get help. Follow the road if possible. If you need to walk across open country, orient your route toward distant landmarks to maintain your sense of direction.