Ask the Chief

Does this winter seem colder to you than last year? It could be the result of the big temperature swings we have seen from day to day. One day will have double digits below zero with the next day being in the high teens or twenties.
You may tell yourself that all you need to do is get used to it, but that is not 100 percent true. While we can learn to tolerate the cold, we need to never forget that frostbite and hypothermia are an uncontrolled physical response that can be painful and even fatal.
When it is cold outside, you need to dress in layers and cover as much skin as possible. Avoid being outside for long periods and stay hydrated. Becoming dehydrated makes it difficult for your body to maintain its core temperature.
Work at an even rate to avoid sweating and overworking yourself. Take breaks often. If your clothing gets wet, you need to change them right away. Have extra clothing available to include socks, gloves, and hats. Work together so that if you get hurt, someone is there to help or call 911.
Don’t take the weather for granted because if you do it may frostBITE you.

Not all bad
I am not making any predictions for the coming year. Politics is a mess. Policing is a mess. Health care is a mess. State and Federal government is a mess. Inflation is a mess.
What I do know is that I have a good community to work for and with. I have a great boss who is sensible, practical, and always there for me. I have good partners at the shop who are quick to lend a hand. The First Responder and Fire Department are top-notch and make emergency calls a little easier. So, I guess I do know. I have it pretty good and I have support.