When the weather forecast starts with “baby, it’s cold outside,” Oklahomans need to get prepared for winter weather.

As you shake, shiver, slip and slide through the winter months, reduce your exposure to cold-weather hazards by learning common weather terms and preparing ahead of possible storms or other emergencies.

Slips and falls can happen so fast, especially outside in snowy or icy conditions. Of course, there are no guarantees against the occasional accident, but taking a few simple precautions could cut the chances of taking a tumble while outdoors this winter.

Snow and ice are heavy. For proof, just look around at the downed trees and branches littered throughout the landscape.

Certain trees can be a beautiful part of a homeowner’s landscape, but with snow, ice and heavy winds, these very same trees can become an eyesore and a safety hazard.

For those pet owners whose pets spend a good deal of time romping in the back yard or passing the time in a patch of sunshine on the deck, the arrival of winter may be a rude awakening for those furry friends.

After waking up on a cold winter morning, nothing gets the day started on the right foot like a hot shower. However, if the weather has been extremely cold, there is a possibility that shower may have to be delayed if no water comes out of the faucet due to frozen pipes.

Extreme weather is as much a part of Oklahoma as the waving wheat and the wind coming right behind the rain. Tornadoes and scorching temperatures are not at all unusual, and neither is frigid cold weather.

Parts of Oklahoma have already felt the wrath of winter during the ice storm a few weeks ago. While the cold, snowy and icy weather can be difficult to deal with, one set of the population has some special concerns, especially since Oklahomans are just at the beginning of the winter season.

As temperatures continue to drop, wood burning stoves will get more and more action.