Unlike most mid-Octobers it's been great golf weather in South Dakota.  Over the weekend I was out with friends golfing Prairie Green Golf Course here in Sioux Falls.

The foliage along the fairways was brilliant.  As I spend most of my time deep in the foliage when I golf, I had plenty of opportunity to enjoy the fall colors.

Wednesday Oct. 22nd is 'Winter Weather Preparedness Day' in South Dakota.

Meteorologist Todd Heitkamp with The National Weather Service in Sioux Falls says: "Winter Weather Is Coming To Sioux Falls, it's just a matter of when.  But it's not gonna feel like winter anytime soon"

According to the National Weather Service now is the time to start preparing yourself, your family, vehicles, and home for the onset of adverse winter weather.

Why talk about Winter Weather?

Each year, dozens of Americans die due to exposure to cold. Add to that the number vehicle accidents and fatalities, fires due to mis-use of alternate heat sources, and you have a significant threat.

People can become trapped at home or in a vehicle, without utilities or any other assistance.

A major winter storm can last for several days and be accompanied by high winds, freezing rain, sleet, heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.

Threats, such as hypothermia and frostbite, can lead to permanent injuries or even death.

The aftermath of a winter storm can have an impact on an area for days, weeks, or even months.

It is very important to be prepared for adverse winter weather. Everyone should create a plan for what you and your family will do in case of a storm. Having your car fully checked and winterized, along with having a survival kit in your vehicle are a few important things to take care of before the snow begins. Remember, it is ultimately up to you to make the preparedness decisions based upon the information you hear from the National Weather Service. It's a decision that could save your life.

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