This column addresses topics related to the health of our community.
Q: What are some important things to remember about winter automobile travel?
A: The most important tip regarding winter car trips is simply this: stay home if the weather is bad. When roads are slippery, crashes happen. When weather reporters say, "If you don't have to travel, stay home," it is wise to follow the advice.
Nevertheless, at times driving on snow and ice is unavoidable. Don't venture out until the snow plows and sanding trucks have been through, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Here are some tips for driving on icy or snowy roads from weather.com:
• SLOW is of utmost importance. Decrease your speed, leaving plenty of room for stopping.
• BRAKE GENTLY to avoid skidding. Light taps on the brake work well. If you skid, ease off the brake.
• HEADLIGHTS ON for increased visibility to other motorists.
• CLEAN your windshield and headlights often.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers advice for winter car preparation. Be sure your antifreeze level is correct, and replace your windshield-wiper fluid with a wintertime formula. Worn tires must be replaced. Also, during winter, keep the gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank or fuel lines. Be sure your cell phone is charged before setting out on a trip.
WINTER SURVIVAL KIT FOR YOUR CAR
The following items can be assembled into a box and placed in your car for ready use - just in case: Blankets, first aid kit, waterproof matches and candles, windshield scraper, booster cables, road maps, tool kit, paper towels, bag of sand or cat litter, tow rope, tire chains or cables, collapsible shovel, water, high-calorie snacks, flashlight and batteries, brightly colored cloth and canned compressed air with sealant
IF YOU GET STRANDED
Staying in your vehicle when stranded is often the safest choice when storms hinder visibility or roads are ice covered. The CDC offers these steps to help keep you safe while stranded:
• Tie a brightly colored cloth to the car antenna to signal rescuers. If it is not snowing, raise the hood of the car.
• Move anything you need from the trunk into the passenger area.
• Wrap your entire body, including your head, in extra clothing or blankets.
• Stay awake; you will be less vulnerable to cold-related health problems.
• Run the motor and heater for about 10 minutes per hour, with one window slightly open to let air in. Be sure snow does not block the exhaust pipe - it will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to improve circulation and stay warmer.
• Do not eat unmelted snow as it will lower your body temperature.
• Huddle with other people for warmth.
• Do not drink alcohol or caffeine: they cause your body to lose heat more rapidly.
JANUARY IS NATIONAL RADON ACTION MONTH
Elevated levels of radon have been found in 37 percent of Carson City homes tested. Radon is the No. 1 cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Attend this event to learn more:
WHAT: Radon Presentation at Carson City Senior Center
WHERE: 1 Beverly Drive, Carson City
WHEN: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 12
• Free Radon Test Kits
• Learn how to perform the test
• Enter a contest for $1,500 toward a radon mitigation system
• Radon test kits are always available at the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension office in Carson City. Address is 2621 Northgate Lane, Suite 15. Hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
CLINICS
WHERE: Carson City Health and Human Services, 900 East Long St., Carson City
CALL: 775-887-2195
Clinic Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., by appointment Monday-Wednesday and Friday
WHAT: Men's Clinic
WHEN: 4-6 p.m. Mondays, Call for an appointment
WHAT: Immunization Day
WHEN: 8:30-11:30 a.m.; 1-4:30 p.m. Thursdays. No appointment needed
Vaccination is the best defense against the flu! CCHHS offers flu injections or nasal mist for $10. No appointment is necessary.
On the Net
www.gethealthycarsoncity.org
WHOOPING COUGH EPIDEMIC IN CALIFORNIA
In neighboring California, confirmed cases of whooping cough, or pertussis, is now four times that of last year. Local health officials encourage Tdap boosters for any adult up to 64 years of age that is in close contact with an infant. Whooping cough boosters for adults and vaccine for infants is available at Carson City Health and Human Services.
• Pam Graber is the public information officer for Carson City Health and Human Services. She can be reached at 775-283-7906 or pgraber@carson.org.