Winter fast approaching, anticipate dangers Published Sept. 22, 2008 By Tech. Sgt. Michael English 90th Civil Engineer Squadron F.E. WARREN AFB, Wyo. -- Unfortunately, summer is coming to an end, and winter is fast approaching here at Warren. I am not looking forward to the frigid temperatures and harsh winds that accompany a winter in Wyoming. Usually, as soon as the warm days of summer shine upon me, I completely forget about those nasty times I experienced during the previous winter. I throw on my sandals to enjoy the long days and sunshine. The feeling is mutual, I'm sure. Wyoming is commonly hindered by severe snow storms, high winds and extremely cold temperatures throughout winter. Storms can approach very quickly and can easily leave someone stranded on the highway or barricaded in their home. During this time, high winds can also be an issue. Driving on Interstate 25 during icy conditions is dangerous, but add a powerful wind gust and someone could easily lose traction, finding themselves off of the shoulder of the road in an instant. In addition to the awesome weather phenomenon Wyoming encounters, don't forget the blistering cold that engulfs us during the winter days. As a proud member of the 90th Civil Engineer Squadron's readiness and emergency management flight, I would like to remind all of you of a few winter safety and preparation tips to ensure you and your family stays safe during this winter season: Prepare your home. Every home should have severe weather safety kits consisting of a flashlight, battery operated radio, extra batteries, matches and an extra set of house or car keys. Keep bottled water handy in case pipes freeze. Also stock up on non-perishable food that does not require heating. Consider adding pet food and extra infant formula if needed in case you can't go to the supermarket. Also consider investing in a camp stove or kerosene heater. If you plan to enjoy the winter of Wyoming, ensure you don't overexert yourself. This can put a strain on your heart which in turn can damage your body. Make sure to dress in loose fitting layers as trapped air insulates your body. Wear water or wind proof outer layers and be sure to wear a hat for maximum heat retention. For your hands, wear mittens instead of gloves, as mittens allow your fingers to move freely and keep each other warm. Limit your time outdoors in extreme low temperatures as frostbite and hypothermia can come on quickly. The Wyoming landscape can be very interesting in the winter. If your plan involves going to Yellowstone or taking a dip in the hot springs of Thermopolis, make sure the plan you use is comprehensive. Ensure your vehicle is winterized and you have a good set of tires. Store an emergency kit in your vehicle containing blankets, extra clothes, non-perishable foods that do not require heating, newspaper for insulation, bottled water, shovel, small tools, tire chains or sand, jumper cables, flashlight, matches and a first aid kit. A thermometer inside your car with an external probe to measure ambient temperature is also a fine tool to have. This will let you know if temperatures are low enough to produce icing conditions. So, now that summer is coming to a close and winter is readily approaching, remember these safety and preparation tips when you find yourself shivering. A little prep work on your end could ensure an enjoyable, safe winter season for you and your family.