Winter is coming! Wisconsin is home to freezing temperatures, icy roads, and lots of snow. Though the temperatures are still warm, now is a good time to get prepared! Here are a few tips to make sure you, your family, and your vehicle are ready for Wisconsin winter weather:
• Make sure you have warm boots, pants, coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and thermal underclothes (also known as ‘base layers’) for yourself and your family. Children especially need a few extra layers to help keep out the cold.
• Shut and lock all windows in your apartment to make sure the warm air stays in and the cold air stays out.
• Pay attention to weather forecasts. They alert the public to freezing temperatures, road/travel conditions, and snow.
• Check local news sites for school cancellations; many schools also notify families through email and/or text.
• Prepare your vehicles ahead of time. Ensure proper fluid levels – especially antifreeze and cold-rated windshield wiper fluid. Check tires for proper tread and pressure. Maintain at least a half-tank or more of fuel. Review your owner’s manual for more information.
• Call 511 or check https://511wi.gov/#:Alerts to get updates on Wisconsin road conditions.
It’s also a good idea to have an emergency kit in your vehicle, especially when traveling, that includes:
- Extra blankets
- Spare set of winter clothes/boots/outerwear
- Flashlight
- Cell phone car charger
- Snow brush with window scraper
- Small shovel
- Water/snacks
- Candle with lighter
Jeff Kirchman
University Apartments Community Police Officer
608-264-2677 | jkirchman@wisc.edu
University Apartments Community Center, Room 131