Winter dangers in spotlight

Talk about it

Seasoned Minnesotans may claim that nothing about a Minnesota winter could surprise them, but statistics say otherwise.

That’s why a group of entities partner together to promote Winter Hazard Awareness Week each year. This year’s observation will take place November 9-13.

Each year, the National Weather Service, Minnesota Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Minnesota Department of Public Safety and others promote winter safety and individual preparedness for all citizens wherever they are: in their homes, on the road, at work or at play.

This year’s event focuses on preparedness and prevention, and adds a new “What’s Your Winter?” online photo contest. Amateur photographers are invited to submit photographs in four categories – Mother Nature, Winter Holidays, Kids in Winter and Outdoor Winter Sports. Age divisions are 15 and younger and 16 and older, with a grand prize in each division and a prize for first, second and third in each category.

The website www.winterwewather.

state.mn.us also offers a variety of weather related information, facts, statistics and more.

Officials note that many people each year suffer needlessly because they are unaware of the potential dangers of the winter season.

During Winter Hazard Awareness Week, the sponsoring entities will issue daily statements pertaining to winter safety, which will be broadcast over NOAA All Hazards Weather Radio and sent over the NOAA Weather Site.

Tags: news, minnesota, winter, danger