Some parts of the country have had significant snow, especially the northwest, northern plain states and parts of New England. And, we see plenty more coming. in the weeks ahead. In a recent almanac we had important survival tips should you be trapped in a car during a blizzard. This includes going off a road to being stuck in a ditch for hours.
This is what you want to remember to do:
1. Stay in the car – don’t leave unless help is visible. If it is cold and there are “white outs” , you could get disoriented and become lost.
2. Display a trouble sign – hang any bright colored cloth on the radio antenna and raise the hood.
3. Occasionally run your engine – run the engine for about 10 minutes, then turn it off. Be sure the exhaust pipe is free of snow to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
4. Do minor exercises to keep your blood circulating.
5. If you are with someone - huddle to create warmth. And, use newspapers, maps or floor mates as added insulation from the cold.
6. Avoid overexertion – if you exercise too much, it can put a strain on your heart. Be aware of dehydration.
Before you head out on a trip, take note of winter storm warnings. Every news outlet prepares us for what is happening outside. Yes, they may even over-hype some conditions but this information can be invaluable. Be sure you carry a shovel, sand, and other essentials in your car should you ”get stuck”. In a cell phone world, your phone can be your best safety devise. So, be prepared. Some of the worst storms of winter are during March and April. They can come from “nowhere” and they usually are enormous and carry heavy moisture. Be prepared..
Peter Geiger is the Editor of the Farmers' Almanac. 
If you notice a hole in the upper left-hand corner of your Farmers' Almanac, don't return it to the store! That hole isn't a defect; it's a part of history. Starting with the first edition of the Farmers' Almanac in 1818, readers used to nail holes into the corners to hang it up in their homes, barns, and outhouses (to provide both reading material and toilet paper). In 1910, the Almanac's publishers began pre-drilling holes in the corners to make it even easier for readers to keep all of that invaluable information (and paper) handy.
