The Hartley Sentinel-The Everly/Royal News - Serving O'Brien & Clay Counties

Big winter storms are always a spectacle here in Iowa. The wind chill numbers never cease to amaze, and the size of drifts always drop our jaws.

Numbers and pictures aside, these storms can be dangerous and downright deadly. It's important to remember that reality no matter how badly you want to leave the house when the white stuff is flying.

Last month's holiday storm was monster. Wind chills hovered between -20 and -40 degrees with the lowest dipping to -50 degrees. Conditions like that are nothing to joke about – they're simply deadly.

Those relentless winds brought with them whiteout conditions that disillusioned even the most seasoned of drivers. Hundreds of marooned travelers were left stranded on roads in Iowa during the storm, endangering not only themselves but those tasked with trying to save them. When weather experts and state transportation departments are advising you not to hit the road, heed their advice.

Let common sense rule the day when dangerous conditions arrive – there's no need to risk your life. It's important to remember the following winter safety tips from the National Weather Service prior to each big storm.

• Dress for the occasion: If you have to be outside, dress appropriately by wearing a hat and layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Stay dry and out of the wind as much as possible while covering your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold. For your hands, remember that mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves.

• Preventing pipes from freezing is simple: Let hot and cold water trickle or drip at night from a faucet and open cabinet doors to allow more heat to get to un-insulated pipes under a sink or near an outer wall. Make sure heat is left on and set no lower than 55 degrees. If you have to be away, have someone check on your house's heating system or drain and shut off the water system.

If pipes freeze, make sure you and your family know how to shut off the water in case one bursts. Never try to thaw a pipe with an open flame or torch – use a hair dryer instead.

• Carbon monoxide poisoning is a silent, deadly killer: Install a carbon monoxide detector and never run generators indoors. If using a kerosene heater, open a window slightly during use and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Never use a gas oven to heat your home and if your heat does goes out, you can keep warm by closing off rooms you do not need while dressing in layers of lightweight clothing and wearing a cap.

Pets get cold, too: Bring pets inside during periods of extreme winter weather and provide shelter and fresh water. Additionally, keep salt away from their paws.

• Vehicle prep is important: Check you battery, fluids and tires prior to your departure. Have jumper cables and pack a winter survival kit with blankets, food, water, basic tools, flash lights and other vital items.