Srinagar: In a bid to keep locals informed and to remain prepared to ensure safety during the winter season, the Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) has released a comprehensive ‘Winter Safety Guide’ to help locals and visitors navigate the challenges of cold weather, snowfall, and potential natural hazards like avalanches and landslides.
The guide has highlighted the practical safety measures, like to combat cold wave, the guide has recommended to dress in layers and keep heaters and blankets handy.
However, the winter guide has highlighted to avoid leaving heaters unattended and monitor signs of hypothermia and carbon monoxide poisoning.
For ski enthusiasts, the winter guide has asked to ski only in groups and adhere to government advisories, further asking to avoid unstable snow zones.
“Use appropriate gear, including helmets and goggles, and carry essentials like GPS devices and water,” states the winter guide plan. It has further asked to stay mindful of weather and avalanche warnings and practice emergency drills.
For avalanche awareness, the winter guide has highlighted to carry avalanche safety equipment like beacons, shovels, and probes.
With regard to snowfall safety, the winter guide has mentioned to clear rooftops of accumulated snow to prevent structural damage.
The winter guide has mentioned to keep emergency supplies stocked and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy snow.
For navigating landslides, the winter guide mentions to stay updated on weather warnings in vulnerable areas and evacuate if necessary, asking to avoid travelling through landslide-prone zones and ensure properties near slopes are secure.
To prevent winter fires, the winter guide plan has recommended installing smoke detectors and maintaining proper ventilation while using fireplaces or heaters. It has also advised to avoid storing flammable materials near heat sources and refrain from overloading electrical circuits. (KNO)
