Holiday and winter safety considerations Published Nov. 15, 2007 By Airman 1st Class Kali L. Gradishar 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- It is apparent that winter and cold weather is fast approaching, with frozen windshields in the mornings, puddles crystallizing into ice over night and people beginning to wear jackets to ward off the chill. As the frosty and freezing days near, the considerations for one's safety shift from warm- to cold-weather related. The wing winter safety briefing relayed the most common safety concerns to Airmen Nov. 15 in the base theater, bringing to light the possible dangers related to cooking a Thanksgiving meal, driving in severe conditions, participating in winter sport and driving while under the influence of alcohol. Rusty Schmidt, 92nd Air Refueling Wing safety superintendent, recommended some tips for deep-frying a turkey this holiday season, advising folks to fill a deep fryer with oil only to the appropriate level, follow manufactures instructions, and use the fryer on a level and open surface. Also, he warned of the hazards of the hot oil while cooking, possible flash fires and the cooling of the oil before disposing of it. Another common winter safety warning is driving in wintry weather. "Know what kind of braking system you have," said Mr. Schmidt. This will help you adjust and be prepared by knowing how you should break when confronting slippery conditions. Drivers should also be aware of black ice, as "you're not going to see it until you hit it and you begin your skid," he said. You may consider getting your tires studded or purchasing chains for your tires in case of severely snowy roads. And checking road conditions before heading out is essential. Resources to do so include http://wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/passes, which will provide information for mountain passes, http://511.idaho.gov, which will provide Idaho driving conditions, and from some phones you may dial 5-1-1 for road condition information. "Be prepared," Mr. Schmidt advised. "Keep a kit in your car with high energy foods, some water and some blankets." Also mentioned was the need for safety while participating in winter sports including, but not limited to, snowboarding, skiing and snowmobiling. "We highly encourage the use of helmets. Make sure your gear fits you properly," said the safety superintendent. Know the terrain you will be maneuvering, remain in approved locations and stay within your ability level. This will aid in staying safe while enjoying outdoor recreation. The Airmen were advised of the typical slips, trips and falls, recommending everyone to remain aware of their surroundings, clear pathways, take baby steps, and watch for ice while walking. Another warning focused on the hazards that come with the holiday season. Holiday trees, especially real trees, can be a fire hazard, particularly in the presence of burnt out bulbs or exposed wires. Checking a tree's hydration, the lights that will go on a tree or house, and the smoke detectors is highly advised. The last point made in the wing winter safety briefing is driving while under the influence of alcohol, as holiday parties are given. "Please have a plan and follow that plan," said Mr. Schmidt. "Have a [designated driver], money in your wallet [for a taxi cab], or have a recall roster [to call someone you know to pick you up]." Having a plan before a night of drinking is a preventative measure that is highly necessary and can keep you and others safe. "The main goal is to keep everyone safe," said Lt. Col. Patrick Rhatigan, 92nd Air Refueling Wing chief of safety, "and see you back after the holidays."