The ultimate Kansas winter survival guide
Here's how to stay warm, stay safe, and stay occupied as the snow falls.
As I’m sure many of those across campus are aware, snow has come to Bethel College — and not just a little snow that melts after a couple of hours, but rather snow that has accumulated for over a week now.
And as many students hail from areas that see less snow (or maybe even no snow at all during the winter seasons), this guide to surviving the Kansas winter may be beneficial to you. From managing driving to finding ways to keep warm, hopefully this guide helps make the freezing months of Kansas more manageable.
First and foremost, the obvious hindrance with snowy weather: mobility. From walking to driving and everything in between, snow and ice can make these usually everyday modes of transport more dangerous. When walking, stick to areas cleared of snow and ice. In icy areas, stick to taking smaller, closer steps to avoid slips and falls.
When on outdoor stairs, always use the hand railings. And most importantly, bundle up. Not only does it protect you from the wind and cold, but several layers can be very protective in case of a fall or slip, both as cushioning as well as helping prevent wet clothes. Speaking from experience, there’s nothing more miserable than slipping on ice then having to limp back to the dorms in a soaked hoodie.
For drivers, be sure to check with local weather reports or the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) for road conditions before going anywhere. Ensure your car is safe for travel by clearing snow and ice from the windows and doors. Plastic ice scrapers are a must for these conditions, but if you do not have one, most plastic items with a flat, wide edge can clear a windshield without leaving scratches.
These items can include plastic folders and cards, such as a credit card or your own Bethel Student ID. Never default to using hot water to clean off an icy windshield, as the drastic temperature change can cause the glass to crack or shatter. It also wouldn’t hurt to preheat your car while you clear it off. And if you need to drive, drive slowly.
Be aware of black ice, nicknamed for its ability to blend in with the surrounding asphalt and appear nearly invisible to a driver. Even small patches of black ice can turn a driving car into a tow truck’s payday. If you happen to lose control of your vehicle, don’t panic — it may seem logical to slam on the brakes and yank the steering wheel, but in reality, this makes the problem worse.
Instead, slowly tap on the brakes while gently turning the steering wheel in the opposite direction that your car is veering towards. Control of your vehicle is the most important way to avoid crashing on icy roads. However, the safest way to avoid crashing is simply not getting in your car in the first place… if you do not feel comfortable driving on the roads, don’t! If you are driving and you begin to feel unsafe, turn around and return to where you departed from.
For those who wish to know how to keep warm, look no further than layering up. Whether you have to trek across campus or keep warm at night, multiple layers help keep the elements out. Thicker coats and blankets that have a lining of fleece or similar material are typically the warmest, but multiple layers of any insulating apparel are more protective than one.
Further, be sure to protect body parts furthest away from your heart, such as fingers, toes, nose, and ears. The body parts are far away from the warmest part of your body, and stick out, leaving them vulnerable to cold weather. Gloves, thick socks or boots, earmuffs, and scarves all can protect you from the elements and help keep your body warm. Several thrift stores around Newton may have these pieces of clothing available for lower prices as well.
In instances where the power goes out, be sure to conserve where necessary. For example, use fridges and freezers sparingly, as you are letting the cold air out of the fridge while simultaneously welcoming it into your dorm. Ensure all windows are closed completely while sealing in cracks with towels or wash rags to ensure the least amount of cold air invades your warm dorm room. Bundle up and make sure unless you are going to sleep to move around occasionally to keep yourself active and warm. Check with the local electric company, in North Newton’s case Evergy, to see outages and when the issue should be resolved.
Lastly, how does one entertain themselves during these cold times? With temperatures this week plummeting to as low as -26 degrees with wind chills and snow and ice impairing travel, how does one stay sane? Gathering up with friends can be a great way to provide entertainment.
The Bethel College Board Games Library, located in the Mantz Library, can also provide something to do. The Haury Hall games lounge is a great place for all students to hang out and have fun as well. For sports fans, this can be a great time to check in on your favorite teams as the Super Bowl rapidly approaches or catch highlights of the most recent games.
Remember to stay warm, travel sparingly, and check in with local weather reports from KAKE, KWCH-12, or KSN for updates on incoming snowfall, Evergy for power outages, and KDOT for road conditions.