Belle Plaine, Minnesota

... Winter hazard awareness week... day two... outdoor safety

The winter months can pose many hazards to those who choose to
venture outdoors. With many outdoor activities available in
Minnesota and Wisconsin during the winter season... you should
be aware of how to keep yourself safe from the cold... ice...
and snow.

Basic safety tips...

- avoid overexertion... including when shoveling snow.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Keep yourself and your clothes dry.
- Watch for frostbite... and seek medical attention immediately
   if symptoms are present.

What to wear...

- dress warmly in loose-fitting... layered... lightweight
   clothing.
- Wear a hat. Most body heat is lost through the top of your
   head.
- Wear mittens that are tight at the wrist.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf.

Ice safety...

- remember there is no such thing as 100 percent safe ice on
   a Frozen Lake or pond.
- Guidelines for minimum ice thicknesses:
      4 inches - walking/ice fishing
      5 inches - snowmobiling
      8-12 inches - car or small pickup
      12-15 inches - medium truck
- keep children away from ice-covered ponds and streams.

Snowmobile safety...

- take a snowmobile course... ask your snowmobile dealer to
   find a class near you.
- Avoid drugs or alcohol... as many deaths are relate to them.
- Obey the posted speed limit on snowmobile trails.

The above recommendations are based on information courtesy of
the Minnesota department of natural resources. Please contact
the following for further information...

Minnesota dnr information center
500 Lafayette Rd
St Paul MN 55155
651-296-6517 or 1-888-minndnr