Charles County is freezing, and it has already snowed once. When snow days happen, usually everyone has the thought of having a free day off from school to relax and enjoy the snow or chill indoors. Also during winter, there is more to worry about than snow, like winter storms and black ice on the roads. However, students still may have to go out during the snow because of their job or run errands despite the possible dangers. Here are some ways on how to stay safe on snow days.

Senior Justice Moore, employed at Chick-fil-a, is a very careful person and takes her safety very seriously, so going to work during snowy days is not looked over at all. Moore says that on snowy days that she has to go to work she’ll “ask her parents to drive her,” which is something she can always count on. Then she makes sure she will have a ride home before her shift ends. However, on days that she doesn’t have work she chooses to just “stay indoors and make sure all of her electronics and forms of communication are charged” in case of an emergency or power outages.

Snow days are inevitable so knowing what to do to stay safe is best to keep in mind. The Maryland Emergency Management Agency says to, “Closely monitor updated weather forecasts and keep electronic communications devices charged. Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated. If you must travel, make sure to have car chargers, and kitty litter or sand for traction. Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time. Never run generators indoors or in closed areas. If it is safe to do so, consider clearing off roofs if significant snow has accumulated. Know who to contact in the case of a power outage “on snow days or winter storms.” According to. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies, “More than 116,000 Americans are injured and over 1,300 are killed on snowy, slushy or icy pavement every winter.” Make sure to take winter safety seriously for your own good.