Winter Safety and Emergencies

Winter safety is very important in Pittsburg. Currently there is no cell phone service in our area. Our snowmobile trails are occasionally patrolled by volunteer ‘Trail Patrols’ and NH Fish and Game. Use common sense when planning a day out of doors and letting others know your game plan is suggested.

When winter arrives, it is important to remember that heavy snows, icy conditions and dangerously cold temperatures can occur at any time. To protect you and your loved ones from the effects of harsh winter weather, follow these safety tips:

When outdoors in the elements, wear layers to protect you from the cold. A hat, scarf and mittens are also essential protection against winter weather. Wear mittens rather than gloves—mittens are warmer.

When snowmobiling, always wear a helmet with goggles or a face shield to prevent injuries from twigs and flying debris. Wear layers of water-repellent clothing and make sure you have no loose ends that might catch in the machine or tangle in equipment.

Stay on marked trails. Be alert for fences, tree stumps and stretched wire that may be concealed by snow. Never travel alone. Most snowmobile accidents result in personal injury. The most dangerous situations occur when a person is injured and alone. Never travel alone in a snowstorm.

Make sure your car is in proper working condition and includes blankets, warm clothing, booster cables and tools, bottled water, dried fruits and nuts, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, flashlights and batteries, a shovel and ice scraper.

Watch for signs of frostbite: Feeling of “pins and needles” followed by numbness (no feeling). Skin may freeze hard and look white. When thawed out, skin is red and painful. Very bad frostbite may cause blisters or gangrene (black, dead tissue).

Watch for signs of hypothermia (uncontrolled shivering, slow speech, memory loss, stumbling, sleepiness, extreme tiredness). If you think you have frostbite or hypothermia, don’t eat or drink anything containing caffeine or alcohol—they can worsen your symptoms. Drink warm liquids that do not contain caffeine or alcohol. (alcoholic drinks cause your body to lose heat more quickly). Do not eat snow (lowers your body temperature).

Learn more:

Extreme Cold Prevention Guide

Safety on the Ice brochure from NH Fish and Game

Snowmobile Safety Tips from NH Fish and Game