Winter safety

Published Dec. 7, 2015
By Senior Airman Solomon Cook
325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Although the area around Tyndall has a generally warm climate, Airmen should be aware of the colder weather that comes with the later months of the year and the possible risks that cold weather brings.

"There are several issues that need to be thought about in regards to your home during the winter months," said Staff Sgt. Lee Elam, 325th Fighter Wing Safety ground safety technician. "One of the first issues is that of water pipes freezing due to the cold weather. This can be avoided by insulating water piping and also turning on the water in your home to a slow drip which will keep the water flowing and prevent it from freezing."

Additionally, when warming houses, fireplaces use can also be hazardous; a clogged chimney can cause a fire that can easily engulf your home. Prior to first use Airmen should ensure that chimneys are clean and inspect them for any issues that could lead to a fire. Also, fireplaces can produce carbon dioxide which can be fatal, make sure your home has a functioning carbon dioxide detector as well as smoke detectors, Elam Added.

The possible risks that may arise do not end in the home. Airmen who work in outside areas such as the flight line should be aware of complications that may arise from weather related injuries.

"Cold weather can have particular effects on the body that can make working more difficult and potentially hazardous," Elam said. "When the body becomes too cold the hypothalamus, a gland that controls body temperature, will redirect blood flow to the vital organs. This redirection of blood can sacrifice the extremities which can also lead to frostbite."

"Also, slips, trips and falls are a particularly common hazard during the winter months that can lead to injury to employees," Elam added. "The website www.osha.gov suggests that insulated water resistant boots with a thick rubber sole will help to avoid falling during harsh weather. Additionally, walking slower and taking smaller steps will allow for the worker to make adjustments when a change in traction occurs."

Elam later alluded to a list of hazards that may arise as Airmen drive around the Tyndall area.

"Typically most people think that vehicle maintenance does not change during the winter but this thought process can lead to vehicle accidents," Elam said. "The following are some tips you can use to keep your vehicle functioning properly this winter."

· When the temperature drops the power can drop in your battery. This is a potentially bad situation for drivers of hybrid and electric vehicles due to the decrease in the travel range.

· While most people think that the cooling system is only for the warmer months, neglecting this area of the vehicle could lead to damage to the vehicle engine block. Ensure that the cooling system has the proper amount of anti-freeze that is designed to withstand the temperatures. Check for leaks, if the cooling system is running low on fluid this can cause the remaining fluid to freeze.

· Check that the windshield wipers are in good condition and will adequately clear the windshield. Also keep the windshield washer reservoir filled to help clear possible snow and ice from a driver's field of view.

· Ensure your tires have the proper tread depth to aid proper traction as well as keep the air pressure filled to vehicle manufacturer's recommendation.
· Above all, know how your vehicle handles in adverse weather conditions. You don't want the first time the vehicle loses traction to be in traffic while traveling and not knowing how to control it.

As Airmen enjoy the cooler temperatures, they must ensure cold weather vigilance. Below is a list of sites with more information.

· www.mayoclinic.org
· www.osha.gov
· www.nhtsa.gov