How about this weather? Just last week, it was so cold in the Boston area, our faces hurt! Then, it was raining and foggy here while most of the country was facing record low temperatures and icy conditions that even rock salt couldn’t thaw. Now, it looks like we’ve re-joined the rest of the country and are facing frigid temperatures again.

What does this mean for commuters in the North Shore? If you haven’t done so already, it’s important to have a checklist in place for those really cold, snowy days to ensure that you are prepared for whatever Mother Nature decides to throw at us in a given week.

Step 1: Walking to work or public transit – Layer up for the commute!

When you do head out for work or to run errands, make sure you wear layers. Long underwear is the perfect “base” layer along with a good pair of wool socks. Next, add a fleece or warm sweater to lock in the heat that the base layer is holding close to your body. After that, you can add your coat and make sure that it has a windshield to protect you from that piercing, blistery air. You should have a hood on your coat or a good, warm hat to keep the heat close to your body. Top it all off with an insulated pair of gloves, a scarf to cover your face and a hearty pair of waterproof snow boots with a good tread to prevent you from slipping on ice.

L.L.Bean, Lands End and Sorel are great brands to consider for protecting your feet from the elements.

Step 2: Get your car ready for winter

  1. Make sure you have a full tank of gas in your car before a storm arrives. A full tank will prevent your fuel line from freezing.
  2. Keep a winter emergency kit in your trunk or the back of your car. This kit should contain a blanket (foil or fleece), flashlight (with extra batteries), jumper cables, hat, gloves, extra pair of socks, hand warmers, road flares, a small shovel, a  first aid kit and food (e.g., protein bars) and water.
    Other good options to include in this kit are a lock de-icer and a list of important phone numbers (in case your phone dies and you need to reach a loved one).
  3. Know the current road conditions. Call 511 from your cell phone or any of the following from either your cell phone or landline phone.

Metro Boston: (617) 986-5511

Central Mass: (508) 499-5511

Western Mass: (413) 754-5511

More tips on driving safely in winter conditions.

Step 3: Biking to work during the winter months

  1. If you plan to ride your bike to work during the winter months, you should install knobby or studded tires so you can pedal on icy surfaces. Here’s a of tire recommendations.
  2. Install good lights and reflectors to ensure that other drivers can see you, especially in adverse conditions. Use a powerful, highly visible front light or flashing white LED and at least two bright red flashing LED rear lights.
  3. Choose your route to work wisely based on the winter road conditions. If you are confident riding in traffic, busy streets tend to have the least amount of snow and ice. However, be aware of potholes, slush puddles, and snow banks. Also remember that snow-covered roads mean narrower thoroughfares. Be vigilant in busy traffic and never assume that drivers can see you.

Below is a list of some great websites that you can reference for additional information.

More tips on biking to work during the winter

 Winter Safety

 Checklist for preparing your car for winter weather

Please check our website regularly for updates on braving the elements during your shared commute.

Best of luck this winter! Stay warm and get to work/home dry and safe.