Don’t get caught in the cold

One day it’s 80 degrees and you’re wearing a T-shirt, the next it’s below freezing and you’re looking outside at snow on the ground. As Coloradans, we know that winter weather can sneak up on us in no time, but do we all know how to prepare?

We care that you are ready for wintry conditions, so follow these tips to help you, your employees and your family stay safe and warm this winter season.

Prep your vehicle

• Get your car serviced.
• Create an emergency kit.
• Brush up on your winter driving and defensive driving skills.
• Install a car phone charger.
• Make sure you’re making wise driving decisions. When in doubt, don’t go.
• Keep an energy bar or snack mix handy.
• Throw in an extra blanket and winter jacket.
• Sign up for email/text alerts from CDOT.
• Download the CDOT Mobile App.

Prep your workplace

• Revisit your winter footwear policies and remind employees about the risks of slips, trips and falls.
• Do what you need to do to make sure walkways are clear and safe for employees.
• Educate your employees about hypothermia. All it takes is for your body temperature to fall below 95 degrees!
• Encourage employees to wear layers of clothing — base, middle, and outer shells — to help ensure that they are at homeostasis.
• Educate yourself and your employees on Colorado’s traction and chain laws.

Prep yourself

Visit one of the many retail outlets around Colorado to get yourself some cold-weather gear. Gloves, hats, boots, footwear, traction devices and sunglasses or goggles should be used to help protect yourself from the hazards that come with winter weather.

A common injury that occurs in the winter months is carbon monoxide poisoning. Be sure you know how to use temporary space heaters and keep your vehicle exhaust from accumulating inside the vehicle.