Snow Fall at UTC
It’s wintertime in Chattanooga. What does that mean to you? Snowmen, sledding and hot chocolate? Well, yes, we hope so! Unfortunately, it also means preparing for the not-so-fun things that severe weather can sometimes bring our way. Last year, an unpredicted snowstorm caught many local residents off-guard. Don’t let that happen to you. Here are tips and links to great information that will keep you safe and help you arrive safely at your winter destinations!
Dress Warmly
It may not be glamorous, but dressing warmly is important. Wear layers, preferably in materials that wick away moisture. Also, do wear gloves, and find a hat you like because you can lose up to 60% of your body heat through your head! Consider the activity you are undertaking when dressing for warmth, also. You will dress differently if you are walking from your dorm to campus than you would if you are going skiing, or plan to stay out in the weather for a longer period of time! Weather.com has even more tips on how to dress for winter!
Winterize Your Car and Pack a Car Safety Kit
Newer cars don’t need quite as much “help” during winter weather as later models, but checking your antifreeze, battery and oil is always a good idea. Keeping your car fueled up (at least half a tank) is also important. Take care of your car, and it will take care of you! DMV.gov has some great information about how to winterize your car here.
If you get stranded, you will also want an emergency kit for your car. This kit should include, at a minimum, a blanket or sleeping bag, a flashlight, some water and food, and a first aid kit. For a complete list, DMV.gov has the information you need here.
Drive (and Walk) Carefully
Carefully is the key word here. If you don’t have to go out when it is snowing or icy, don’t! If you have to travel, however, familiarize yourself with the do’s and don’ts of driving in winter conditions by going to AAA’s site for winter driving tips.
Once you arrive at your destination, carefully still applies! Look at these tips from the University of Illinois to avoid injury when walking in slippery conditions due to snow or ice.
Be Informed
Stay up to date on what is happening at UTC by checking your UTC email for information, monitoring UTC’s social media and signing up for UTC Alert, a program designed to push out texts to you when emergency situations are occurring on campus. Staying informed is the best way to be prepared for anything that may come your way!