Winters in Cleveland are notoriously cold. While longtime residents are familiar with lake-effect snow and frigid winds, staying warm and safe can still be a challenge.
The start of this winter has certainly been impactful. After a slow start to December, it has been a consistent downpour of snow, gusty winds and low temperatures. The weather is only going to get worse, considering forecasts predict conditions comparable to the winter of 2014, and with the winter solstice now passed, colder weather is expected to continue.
“It gets pretty bad sometimes, all of the freezing cold, snow and stuff like that,” Lakewood history teacher Joseph Lobozzo said. “But it can also be a lot of fun — a lot of sledding and such.”
The Lakewood Times staff has compiled a comprehensive guide for students and adults seeking to stay warm during the upcoming winter, from practical tips to community resources.
Undeniably, the most important tip for surviving Lakewood winters is dressing in layers. Many students still come to school without coats or proper winter clothing, even on the coldest days. “Fashion has definitely changed,” Lobozzo said. “People wouldn’t be without coats because of fashion reasons when I was growing up. You would have a winter coat on.”
The key to staying warm, especially outdoors, is to maintain body temperature. Particularly in key areas like your hands, feet, and core. Gloves, warm socks and insulated jackets help prevent heat loss and reduce the risk of frostbite.
This is especially critical on days when temperatures drop well below freezing. Many Lakewood residents rely on walking or public transportation, and traveling without adequate protection can be painful and dangerous. Bundling up is essential.
Another tip for surviving the winter is knowing where and when the community can help. Winter can be especially challenging for residents who lack access to warm clothing or supplies. Local organizations such as Lakewood’s H2O program provide free winter gear to those in need.
“H2O volunteers have been laying out hats, scarves, and gloves for anyone to pick up outside of Cove Community Center,” said Amy Chodzin, H2O assistant coordinator. “Located near one of the busiest bus stops in Lakewood, these items are available for pickup. Everyone is encouraged to take what they need, and we’ll keep it up all winter long!”
Other programs across Greater Cleveland also support residents during the winter months. Lakewood High School students recently completed a food drive benefiting the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. Cleveland’s annual A Better Generation Ohio coat drive distributes donated coats across the state. Anyone in need can benefit by reaching out.
The final tip from The Lakewood Times is to always be prepared for any situation. Cleveland, Ohio, is notorious for having very unpredictable weather, and that continues during winter.
Being prepared can make the difference between a manageable winter and ongoing difficulty. Packing hand warmers, extra clothing and emergency supplies in backpacks and vehicles can help. Drivers should keep warm gear in their cars in case of breakdowns.
Winter preparation may seem obvious, but many people underprepare or fail to plan ahead. Preventative measures can be critical during emergencies and, in some cases, lifesaving.
“Preparation [is] knowing what you have and being ready for [anything]” Copper River School District Principal Ben Dolgner said. “People stock up ahead of time here. A lot of times [when] we … make trips to the grocery store … we get more stuff than we normally would [need].”
The three most important ways to stay safe are: wearing layers as needed, knowing where to find community support and staying prepared. With these tips in mind, the Lakewood Times hopes residents have a safer and warmer winter.
“So some of it is just common sense,” Dolgner said. “We don’t have to do a lot [to stay warm].”
