We live in Rochester. We can handle the cold and snow! As a reminder, here are some outdoor tips:

• Always carry a fully charged cell phone in case you fall outside and need help.
• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack—a major cause of death in the winter. If you must shovel snow, stretch before going outside and take frequent breaks. Go inside to warm up.
• Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extremely cold air.
• Dress in several layers of lightweight clothing.
• Wear gloves or mittens and a hat (preferably one that covers your ears).
• Keep your feet warm & dry. Wear waterproof, insulated boots. Warm feet keep your whole body warmer.
• Make sure your boots have a good tread so that you can keep your footing on ice and snow.
• Keep dry. Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses all of its insulating value.
• Watch for signs of frostbite. These include loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately.
• Watch for signs of hypothermia. These include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness, and apparent exhaustion.

Winter Storms & Blizzards: Drive only if it is absolutely necessary!

• Always carry a fully charged cell phone.
• Travel during daylight hours, don’t travel alone, and keep others informed of your schedule.
• Stay on main roads; avoid back road shortcuts.
• Keep your gas tank full.
• Listen to your radio, television, or weather radio for weather reports and emergency information.
• Plan ahead. We usually have advance warning of impending storms. Go to the grocery store and run errands before the storm hits.