Fatalities from poisonous gases and vapors from wood and coal fires have increased during the winter months, from improperly installed or defective coal and gas heaters. Studies indicate that there is a significant increase in deaths the week following a major winter storm. Past weather patterns show us that winter storms will continue to be killers. Winter deaths can strike without warning. Transportation, communication and isolation make the elderly, infirm, and handicapped particularly suscepitible to failures of home heating and inadequate provisions of food amd medicine.
Unpredictable weather is often the rule rather than the exception, particularly during the winter.
Snowball fights, sledding down slopes and holiday presents are all fun, but winter can be dangerous too, if you aren't careful. Fireplaces, woodstoves and space heaters are hot, don't play too close. Even on holidays, candles in windows are dangerous. Tell mom and dad if you see any overloaded electrical sockets, and keep the Christmas tree away from heat. If your tree needs water, feed it.