Winter Reminders

Jan 14, 2024: Edition 173

This list of reminders is not comprehensive. Feel free to add to the comments.

Please, please: limit your exposure to the outdoors. Don't drive unless necessary. Carpool. Take care of your car battery. Remove built up snow from your vehicle roof, as it can become a dangerous sheet of ice that may harm you or others while driving. Bundle up.

Provide enrichment activities for mental stimulus for children & pets. Do indoor exercises. Enjoy quality time with loved ones. Be graceful with yourself & others.

Remove snow from roofs,walkways & driveways, but safely. Take breaks. Be mindful of slip and fall hazards, frostbite, overexertion.

Take your pets out for quick potty breaks, and watch them closely for frostbite. Use dog jackets plus booties or paw wax. Use pet safe ice melt. Be mindful of animal escape opportunities. We don't want pets to be lost at any time, but especially during severe weather. In whiteout conditions when you can't even see cars around you, dogs and other animals are easily hit. Drive slowly around blindspots such as snow berms, as animals may dart from them unexpectedly.

Ensure that all people & animals are hydrated & warm enough. Check on your disabled, elderly & isolated community members. Seek help if you need. We have warming shelters, but I don't know if we have enough. Be mindful of mental health challenges that may be exacerbated by isolation.

Keep flashlights and phones charged up in case of power outages. Some residents on the NE side of Bend were without power for at least a couple hours. I don't know if it's been resolved. Keep blankets, portable snow shovels, ice melt, cat litter for traction, food, water, flashlights, first aid kits, & such in your vehicles. Take steps to minimize the potential for frozen pipes. Offer to assist with snow removal if you are able to. Again, ask for assistance if needed. There is no shame in needing help. We all need help at some time.

Be kind, patient & compassionate.

Nalina