WLVAC on Snow Standby

While their neighbors are preparing for the blizzard and arranging for a day indoors, the members Wantagh-Levittown Volunteer Ambulance Corps are ready to go out into the snow. Chief Diane Kingdon stated, “Our volunteers are on snow standby with extra crews ready to respond to emergencies.” More than a dozen first responders volunteered to spend the night on call. Operations Officers spent the weekend ensuring all ambulances and response vehicles are fully stocked, fueled, and ready to go.

Be prepared for the storm. 1st Deputy Chief Stephen Grippi advises to “bring your snow shovel inside the house so you can shovel a path from the door to the driveway in case Emergency Crews need to access you and your loved ones.” Packed down snow turns into a sheet of ice, which is unsafe for all. You can also help the Fire Departments by removing the snow from around the fire hydrants near your home.

We ask you to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary and use extreme caution. If you are in good health and must shovel or using a snowblower, please take your time, take frequent breaks, stay hydrated, and stay warm by dressing in layers. President Michael Muccio stated, “Snow shoveling may increase your risk for a Heart Attack. Colder temperatures and physical exertion increases the work load of the heart.” Some signs of a heart attack are chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and discomfort in other areas such as both arms, neck, stomach, jaw, and/or back. If you feel faint, dizzy, or have chest pains while you are shoveling, stop immediately and call 9-1-1.

Check on elderly neighbors, especially if power goes out. Some may be on home oxygen or without heat and will need assistance.

Before shoveling, we suggest the following winter safety tips:

· Stay warm. Dress in layers.

· Push the snow instead of lifting

· When you do have to lift your shovel full of snow, bend at the knees and lift with your legs, not your back.

· Avoid using a large shovel. Using a small shovel is easier to push and lift.

· Before shoveling, warm up by stretching.

· Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids before and during shoveling

· Avoid shoveling immediately after eating a large meal.

Follow our Facebook page for more snow safety tips and updates on our crews. Use the hashtag, #wlvacwintersafety and share your photos with us on our Facebook page after the storm.