HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- (Editor's note: This is the first article in a series highlighting readiness.)
While northern Utah’s winter has been unusually mild so far, winter storms and extreme cold conditions can hit without much notice, and Hill Air Force Base officials are urging Airmen, civilians, and families to take proactive steps to be prepared for when it does.
Severe winter storms are characterized by heavy snowfall, strong winds, and dangerously low temperatures. They can create hazardous conditions both on and off base. Prolonged cold snaps increase the risk of frostbite, hypothermia, and carbon monoxide poisoning, particularly when households rely on unsafe alternative heating sources.
“Winter weather in northern Utah can change rapidly, and when it does, it can become dangerous very quickly,” said Robert Trickey, Hill AFB Emergency Manager. “Preparedness isn’t just a recommendation, it’s a responsibility we all share to protect ourselves, our families, and our mission.”
Base personnel are encouraged to monitor official weather channels and understand key alert categories, including Winter Storm Watches and Warnings, Blizzard Warnings, and Frost/Freeze Warnings. These alerts help the community anticipate hazardous conditions and adjust travel and work plans accordingly. For more information on Hill’s winter weather procedures visit https://www.hill.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3602400/hill-air-force-base-winter-inclement-weather-operations.
Trickey recommends the following preparedness steps:
- Insulate homes and seal windows and doors to retain heat.
- Protect exposed pipes with insulation or newspaper wrapped in plastic.
- Install and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Prepare vehicles with winter tires, ice scrapers, and full fuel tanks.
- Keep warm clothing, blankets, and safe heating options readily available.
“Something as simple as checking your vehicle’s emergency kit or testing your carbon monoxide detector can make a life‑saving difference,” Trickey said. “Small steps taken now prevent big problems later.”
During severe cold, residents should conserve fuel by lowering thermostats and closing off unused rooms. Outdoors, individuals should avoid overexertion, especially while shoveling snow, as cold temperatures increase strain on the heart.
Signs of frostbite include numbness and pale or waxy skin, while hypothermia may cause shivering, confusion, and slowed speech. Both require immediate warming and medical attention. In days of extreme low temperatures, personnel should check on neighbors, particularly elderly individuals or those with limited mobility.
For more information on winter storms and extreme cold readiness, visit https://www.beready.af.mil/Disasters-Emergencies/Natural-Disasters/Winter-Storm-and-Extreme-Cold/.