NEGAUNEE — With December here, the coming months are anticipated by many for outdoor activities, the holiday season and the natural beauty that comes with an Upper Peninsula winter.

However, along with the perks of winter comes a (seemingly never-ending) slew of winter weather conditions taking the form of freezing rain, wind chill, icy roads, and drifts of shoveled/machine-blowed snow towering in Yooper yards.

When it comes to this time of year, it’s important to make sure that everyone tries to stay safe and warm so the winter months can be as enjoyable as possible.

Winter storm watches and warnings are common occurrences during U.P. winters. A watch indicates that there is a high chance of severe winter weather developing, usually issued well in advance to give people time to prepare. A warning is issued when severe winter weather has already developed and is imminent. It’s important to make sure that you and your family stay stocked up on groceries, fuel, medicines, and other essentials before any impending severe weather.

Taking care of your body is especially important during the winter. Wearing clothing that is tightly-woven, loose-fitting and lightweight is best for colder weather, and it’s especially important to make sure that your clothes stay as dry as possible.

Protecting one’s head and any areas of exposed skin will also help to keep you warm, and it’s important to make sure you aren’t over-exerting yourself with activities such as shoveling, ice removal, or too much outdoor exercise.

When it comes to traveling in winter weather, keeping your gas tank at least halfway full and your radiator and exhaust pipe free of ice and snow is key for winter vehicle safety.

Keeping a winter weather safety kit in your vehicle consisting of a first aid kit, sand and/or kitty litter for tire traction and a flashlight, among other items, will also be beneficial in case one runs into more severe weather on the road.

Additional winter safety tips can be found on the National Weather Service’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website, either at weather.gov/mqt/peopletips or weather.gov/mqt/wintertips.

The National Weather Service in Marquette’s active Facebook page can also be followed to receive weather updates around the U.P.

Abby LaForest can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 548. Her email address is alaforest@miningjournal.net.