By WADE PERRY
Student Reporter
As of 9 p.m. Monday the fall season officially began, but there’s still time to make sure unsuspecting students do not get caught off-guard.
This year the National Weather Service is predicting this area may get as much as twice the average annual snowfall this is due to a weather pattern called El Nino, which happens when the warm weather of the Pacific coast pushes cold weather onto the mainland. It also makes for a wet time of year; the Weather Service is predicting that there is a 65 percent chance to see snow as early as Oct. 9.
As winter grows near, it is urged to keep foody ready, even if it is only a can of fruit or vegetables; if possible, bottles of water are recomended.
It is advised to stay home if there are doubts on the saftey of the weather. However if driving in severe weather is unavoidable, it is important to fill vehicles and keep a full tank before temperatures drop. Keep extra supplies in vehicles in case of being stranded. Recommended supplies include snacks, blankets and coats. It is also advised that heaters be inspected in vehicles at least once a week.
As classes continue, it is urged to dress warm and watch the sidewalks and stairs for ice. Black ice is much slicker and harder to see than other forms of ice. Even with school maintenance personnel putting ice melt and salt in frozen areas, it is still not 100 percent safe.
The cold weather brings the cold and flu season. To keep yourself safe, it is best to stay warm and wash your hand more regularly with soap and warm water. Do not cough or sneeze into your hand; use your sleeve of your shirt. Don’t touch your face. Smoking and alcohol consumption can raise the risk of catching the bug. Flu symptoms can appear within six hours and a cold will take a couple of days.
For cold or flu, some of the first signs are coughing, runny nose and chest congestion. The symptoms will usually last three to four days.
Jennifer Mahieu, an instructor of nursing at Northwestern, says that the best way to prevent illnesses is to be educated and know what the symptoms are to different diseases. Another way to stay healthy is to drink a lot of water and get plenty of rest. Those who are sick or feel sick, are advised stay home to avoid infecting students and staff members.
The junior nursing staff will be giving flu shots for a small fee at noon Oct. 20 in the student center.