Shoveling Snow

   The law requires residence to shovel residential sidewalks and steps for personal and private safety. Snow and ice should be removed as soon as possible to avoid an injury. In the event that an individual does slip on an unkempt sidewalk, the person that neglected their sidewalk can be held. Therefore it is very important to remove snow from steps and sidewalks. It is also advisable to remove ice. Putting down cat litter, rock salt, or even regular salt if it is placed down early enough can do this.
   During the winter months the City of Laramie does plow the roads so that they are safe for driving. It is still advisable, however, to be cautious while driving in winter conditions.
 

Driving in Winter Conditions

Before driving in winter conditions supply vehicle with safety equipment.
  • Blankets
  • Shovel
  • Sleeping bag
  • Flashlight
  • Water
  • Non-perishable food
  • A set of warm clothing
  • Hand warmers
While driving in snow it is important to:
  • Accelerate and decelerate slowly
  • Drive slowly
  • Increase distance between cars in order to avoid collisions from sliding vehicles
  • Keep brakes well maintained
  • Don’t stop on hills
  • Don’t power up hills
  • Turn on emergency lights
  • Equip car with good traction tires
To avoid driving in dangerous conditions:
  • Check weather conditions via Wyoming Road Report online or 1-888-WYO-ROAD
  • Note that black ice forms during the night and in the early morning
  • Do not drive while exhausted
In the event of black ice:
  • Do not hit brakes
  • Lift foot off accelerator
  • Do not over correct steering wheel (if car begins to slide)
  • Notice fellow vehicles (sliding can be an indicator of ice)
  • Head for snow on the road (if possible) to gain more traction
  • Try to spot black ice by taking note of any flat and glossy patches on the road
 

Avoid Frozen Pipes

Water pipes burst because as the water inside expands as the pipe gets close to freezing. The high pressure inside the pipe causes the pipe to break.
  • Keep house at 68oF or above
  • Keep sinks at a low drip
  • Disconnect all garden hoses
  • Install covers on outside faucets
  • Open cabinet doors below sinks to allow for heat circulation
 

Health and Well-Being in Winter

Even though snow, ice and cold wind can make it hard to get out it is still important to retain a healthy life style, especially since this is the season for the flu and colds. It is important to continue to eat well and maintain dietary needs. If it is too cold to go outside for exercise or the make it to the gym, consider switching your exercise routine up with workouts that can be managed indoors or consider also venturing out and embracing the cold.
 
Some ideas include:
  • Yoga
  • Indoor aerobics
  • Skiing
  • Snow shoeing
  • The University of Wyoming Outdoor Program has equipment rentals available).
  • It can get extremely cold in winter and thus it is important to wear seasonal appropriate attire.
  • Dress in layers
  • As the body loses heat primarily through its feet, hands, and heat it is particularly important to keep those covered in warm, dry clothing. This will avoid frostbite (which can occur at 0F and below.
  • In order to avoid damage lungs wear a scarf
  • Warm and durable winter coat
  • High traction, waterproof boots in order to avoid injury.