The weather outlook for Indiana this winter favors near to above normal temperatures and less precipitation than normal. Expect mild and cold periods. Also snow and rain are likely and an ice storm is possible though precipitation is expected to be below average. Snowfall could even end up above average.

Whatever weather occurs, everyone must take responsibility for his own safety. Here are typical winter conditions in Indiana:

In mid-winter across Indiana high temperatures average between 25 and 35 degrees while lows average between 15 and 25. Record temperatures are below zero, normal snowfall ranges from 15 inches in the south to over 30 inches in the north, while locations near Lake Michigan often see more than 60 inches of snow.

You can expect the weather to be quite variable with some mild and very cold spells. Frequent weather systems may not occur but some may still bring heavy rain. Minor snow and ice events are likely. A big snow storm, big ice storm or major flood is always a possibility. Tornadoes may even occur.

In addition to cold temperatures being the norm, wind chill is almost always present and can be dangerous. Wind chill is the temperature it feels like outside due to the wind carrying heat away from your body. Air temperatures near zero and winds to 20 miles per hour create wind chills to 20 below zero leading to frostbite in 30 minutes.

Extremely cold conditions can cause a number of health and safety concerns including frostbite and hypothermia. Carbon monoxide poisoning and fires are often caused by alternate heating sources. Taking preventive actions is the best defense:

• Dress in several layers of lightweight clothing which keeps you warmer than a single heavy layer or coat.
• Mittens provide more warmth to your hands than gloves. Wear a hat, preferably one that covers your ears. Wear a scarf over your mouth to protect your lungs.
• Wear waterproof, insulated boots to keep your feet warm and dry and to maintain your footing on ice and snow.
• Take breaks and stay hydrated when shoveling snow.
• If you plan on using an alternate heating source, never use a stove or oven to heat your home. Keep a glass or metal fire screen around the fireplace and never leave a fire unattended. If using a space heater, follow the manufacturers instructions on how to safely use the heater. Place it on a hard, non-flammable surface. Turn the space heater off when you leave the room or go to sleep. Keep children and pets away from your space heater and do not use it to dry clothing.

Frostbie occurs when skin freezes resulting in numbness and a pale white appearance to the affected area. Slowly re-warm the affected skin.

Hypothermia is identified by uncontrollable shivvering, slurred speech, drowsiness or disorientation. If medical care is not available, wawrm the person with a blanket and warm liquids. Do not try to warm the arms or legs first, it drives cold blood to the heard and may lead to heart failure.

On Friday, the topic will be outdoor safety during winter and how an individual can better prepare to minimize risk.

Visit getprepared.in.gov for more information about winter safety.