Resources and Tips

Winter Weather Safety Tips

  • Check the latest weather conditions before heading out. Keep in mind that weather conditions where you are may be different than the conditions where you are going.
  • Allow plenty of time for travel to work/school, and significantly reduce your speed on roadways. Consider these winter weather driving tips from the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
  • Keep a safe distance between your car and other cars. In good weather, you generally should stay 3-4 seconds behind the car in front of you. In adverse weather, that time should increase.
  • Watch carefully for pedestrians.
  • Dress in several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing, rather than a single layer of heavy clothing. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent. Wear a hat, gloves and sturdy waterproof boots. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
  • Avoid excessive exposure to cold temperatures, which can lead to frostbite. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and a pale appearance in extremities, such as fingers, toes, ear lobes or the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, seek medical help immediately.
  • Know the signs of hypothermia: uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent exhaustion. If a person’s temperature drops below 95 degrees, seek immediate medical care.
  • Use flashlights if you lose power. Be cautious of candles as they pose a significant fire hazard. Candles and other open flame items are prohibited on campus. Many of the facilities on campus are equipped with emergency lighting to help guide you to safety should you experience a power failure on campus.
  • Never use portable generators or charcoal/gas grills indoors.
  • Use extreme caution when utilizing indoor electric and kerosene heaters. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Kerosene heaters are prohibited on campus, and only approved electrical heaters are allowed.
  • Use a carbon monoxide detector in your home if you have gas heating, appliances, etc. This will help monitor and detect dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, which is a clear and odorless gas that may present many safety hazards if it leaks in your home.
  • Remember surfaces may be slick even if it appears the area has been cleared of snow and ice. If you are on campus and notice an area of concern, notify your supervisor or contact Facilities Management at 704-687-1311.

Resources

Monitor Your Local Weather
Visit the National Weather Service for the latest forecast in your area.

Make a Plan
Create a plan with family contact information, a meeting location and other important information using these suggestions from Ready NC.

Develop an Emergency Kit
Ready NC offers tips on what you should include in an emergency kit for your house or residence hall.