It pays to be prepared

As the days get shorter and the nights get colder, the realization that winter is almost here starts to set in. With winter right around the corner, it is important know how to prepare for what’s coming.

To be prepared for the upcoming winter, it is important to be familiar with road conditions, cold weather related illness, vehicle winterization, emergency evacuation preparedness and Seasonal Affective Disorder.

It’s vital to understand the colors pertaining to the different road conditions which are green, amber, red and black. Green means the conditions are normal, amber means the conditions vary from normal to dangerous, red means conditions are hazardous, and black conditions are very hazardous. Be cautious when driving in any condition, but be sure to exercise extreme caution during amber, red and black conditions because you can’t always see black ice.

Knowing the signs of cold weather related illness is also important. Frostbite, hypothermia and dehydration are just a few illnesses possible during the winter. Cover all skin including fingers, toes and ears when the temperature drops below freezing. Remember to stay hydrated, even if you are not sweating, and dress in layers when going outside. Seek shelter in a warm place whenever numbness sets in.

Staff Sgt. Travis Scott, the 354th Fighter Wing occupational safety technician, gave a list of ways to prepare vehicles for winter.

• Winterize vehicles before it gets too cold

• Make sure windshield wipers are in good working condition

• Fill up the windshield washer fluid

• Make sure anti-freeze is 50 percent water and 50 percent coolant

• Check the condition of belts and batteries

• Make sure oil is replaced with winter grade oil

• Check the pressure and treads on tires

• Keep an ice scraper in vehicle

• Make sure horns and headlights are working properly

With the arrival of winter, there will be a significant reduction in sunlight. A reflective belt should always be worn during hours of darkness and inclement weather when in uniform.

With the decreased sunlight and persistent cold weather, SAD is commonly experienced during the winter. A few symptoms of SAD include sleeping issues, loss of motivation, social isolation and weight gain of more than five to six pounds.

There are ways to prevent SAD, and they include getting out the house even when it’s cold. Exercising, as well as light therapy, are also good ways to deal with SAD.

Resources on base are available to those experiencing the symptoms of SAD, such as mental health and the chapel.

Fall is quickly coming to a close and winter is close on its heels. No one can stop winter from coming, but proper preparation will help the season go b