The winter season will soon be here, have you prepared for it? The use of risk management on and off duty is vital to keeping you, your loved ones and teammates safe.
According to the [National Climate Assessment](https://nca2014.globalchange.gov/report/our-changing-climate/changes-storms#intro-section-2), since the 1950’s, evidence shows an increase in both storm frequency and intensity during the cold season, with storm tracks having shifted slightly towards the poles. Severe storms across the country wreak havoc, from white out blizzards, sleet and ice storms, to tornadoes, and hurricanes.
No matter where you live, storms are inevitable. The key to safely weathering them is planning and preparation. One way to prepare is to build an emergency plan for your family and practice it often. Identify responsibilities for each member of your household and work together as a team to be familiar with natural disaster risks. Make sure you are familiar with and receive all the ways your local area may send out emergency notification alerts, whether via cell phones, televisions or radios. Another way to stay informed is to regularly check the [National Weather Service](https://www.weather.gov/) website.
In 2024, according to the [Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters and USAID](https://safe.menlosecurity.com/doc/docview/viewer/docNF59CCA63E44D1032420b643da8ff3aab7f2e4f2f81b49186ed2af28037a4a5eeb2690172dc4c), 393 natural disasters occurred around the globe and impacted 167.2 million people and resulted in 16,753 fatalities.
With this knowledge, building an emergency kit for your local area with at least a 3-day supply for evacuation, and a 2-week supply for home will keep you ready for the unexpected.
The kit should include at a minimum:
· Water: one gallon per person, per day
· Food: non-perishables, easy to prepare and also include a manual can opener
· Flashlight with extra batteries
· Medical: prescription medication (7–14-day supply), medical items with medication list, pertinent medical information, and first aid kit
· Legal documents: proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, and insurance policies
· Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
· Extra cash
· Cell phones with chargers
· Map(s) of the area
· Sanitation and personal hygiene items
· Emergency blanket
· Pet supplies: collar, leash, ID, food, bowl and carrier
· Baby supplies: diapers, wipes, clothing, formula, baby food
Another challenge during the winter season is traveling for the holidays. Whether driving or flying, it can become stressful if you don’t prepare ahead of time. Maintaining your vehicle year-round should keep it running smoothly if you decide to travel. Another way to stay prepared for inclement weather is by having blankets, jackets and warm clothing already packed in your vehicle, and don’t forget the emergency kit:
· First aid kit (bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes/ointment, adhesive tape, scissors, pain relievers, tweezers)
· Jumper cables
· Flashlight with extra batteries
· Flares or reflective triangles
· Spare tire with a jack and lug wrench
· Tire inflator
· Cell phone charger
· Basic tool kit (multi-tool, screwdrivers, pliers and a knife at a minimum)
· Water and snacks
Get plenty of rest before embarking on a road trip. If you start to feel tired or sleepy when driving, pull over to a safe location and rest or get a hotel room.
If you decide to fly instead, purchasing your tickets early is more cost effective. Arrive at the airport 2 to 3 hours ahead of your departure time, the more time you have the less stress you feel. Make sure to pack a few clothing items, toothbrushes, comb or brush, medications with water and snacks in your carry-on’s for unforeseen delays due to the weather. Also consider games, books, tablets and chargers for yourself and the kids to help pass the time.
The cold winter months often make us more tired. Sleep deprivation or fatigue when working or traveling can be detrimental. Not sleeping enough or not getting quality sleep are both considered sleep deprivation. Sleep deprivation can cause difficulty in thinking logically, slower reaction times, and mood changes. Sleep deprivation or fatigue can result in injuries or worse, death if you are too tired to perform your duties correctly. A missed tool in an aircraft intake, falling asleep at the wheel while on patrol or traveling to visit family can all cause catastrophic damage or death.
For many adventurous souls, the winter season calls to them. But before venturing out to experience the multitude of winter activities, remember to do a risk assessment. Make sure you have the proper skill level, the correct fitting gear, and be sure to stretch beforehand to warm up your muscles. This can prevent injuries and make your activities easier. Share your plans and locations with someone or better yet take a buddy with you.
The Department of the Air Force lost 42 Airmen and Guardians to preventable accidents from December 1st through March 1st of fiscal years 2020 to 2025. Of those fatalities, 32 were motor vehicle accidents and 23 of those involved speeding and alcohol. One teammate lost to a preventable mishap is one too many!
William "Bill" Walkowiak, chief of Occupational Safety, Air Force Safety Center, reminds everyone to embrace the slower pace of winter and enjoy their time off. "Whether you're hitting the slopes or relaxing with family, take the opportunity to unwind," he said. "Above all, prioritize safety so you can return refreshed and ready to serve."
For more information: [https://www.safety.af.mil/Divisions/Occupational-Safety-Division/Winter-Safety/](https://www.safety.af.mil/Divisions/Occupational-Safety-Division/Winter-Safety/)
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