Winter in Maine and Caring for Your Health

Tuesday, November 25th, 2008

The first snowfall in Maine is a time for the people in the rural areas of Maine to prepare for hibernation. In fact, The University of Maine at Presque Isle recently hosted a winter survival event. Maine residents, on the other hand, need to find their warmest down comforters and stock up on soups and teas before they rest by their fireplace until spring arrives.

Unfortunately, the rural areas of Maine have limited access to certain facilities and services that most Americans take for granted. The best case scenario for these people who live in the Maine outback is they make it through the winter without having to find a health care facility. Ideally, if they can just make it through the winter with a hot cup of tea and soup to cure the common cold, they did really well for themselves. But especially for residents who lack Maine health insurance, hibernation is more than just a matter of “waiting it out.” In any case, here are a few tips to help you survive a Maine winter, while still maintaining your health.

Tips for a Maine Winter

• Carry extra blankets and coats on hand in case there is a loss of power
• Make sure you have an emergency radio, flashlight, and source of food and water for at least three days
• Stock your car, home, and even perhaps your work place with a handy disaster supply kit.
• Be cognizant of various NOAA warnings, including a winter storm warning and the dreaded “blizzard warning.

photo credit: photos_by_ish

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