If you have any older relatives, neighbors or friends, check on them to make sure they are okay. If they do not have heat, call their local municipality or township about warming centers.
Most of all please be careful and avoid overexertion, such as shoveling heavy snow, pushing a car, or walking in deep snow. The strain from the cold and the hard labor could cause a heart attack. Sweating could lead to a chill and even hypothermia.
The following tips along with a little common sense should come in handy as long as winter is around:
1. Wear layers of warm, dry clothing including hat and gloves; wet clothing negates insulating effect.
2. Cover exposed skin surfaces as protection from frostbite (numbness, red-white nose, chin, fingers, forehead, stiff cheeks); warm gradually by wrapping or placing next to warm skin; do not rub affected areas.
3. Beware of hypothermia (body temperature 95 degrees or less): stiff muscles, puffy face, slowed breathing, poor physical condition, and mental condition; if these signs are recognized, call 911 immediately.
4. Drink non-alcoholic beverages such as tea, coffee, hot chocolate and soup.
5. Maintain good nutrition and obtain plenty of rest
6. Prescription drugs may increase vulnerability to cold; check with your doctor or pharmacist.
7. Be aware of elderly and disabled living alone; offer assistance.
8. It is dangerous to use an oven as a heating device. All space heaters are a fire risk if used improperly.
9. Individuals 65 and older should obtain a flu shot every year.
AT HOME AND AT WORK
The primary concerns are the potential loss of heat, power, telephone service, and a shortage of supplies if storm conditions continue for more than a day.
Have Available:
·Flashlight and extra batteries.
·Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and portable (AM-FM) radio to receive emergency information. These may be your links to the outside world.
·Extra food and water. High-energy food, such as dried fruit or candy, and food requiring no cooking or refrigeration is best.
·Extra supply of medicine and baby items.
·First-aid kit.
·Emergency heating sources, such as fireplace, wood stove, space heater, etc. Learn to use them properly to prevent a fire. Have proper ventilation.
·Fire extinguisher and smoke detector. Test units regularly to ensure they are working properly.
IN CARS AND TRUCKS
Plan your travel and check the latest weather reports on current conditions!
Fully check and winterize your vehicle before the winter season begins.
Carry a Winter Storm Survival Kit:
·blankets/sleeping bags
·high-calorie, non-calorie, non-perishable food
·flashlight with extra batteries
·first aid kit
·knife
·extra clothing to keep dry
·a large empty can and plastic cover with tissues and paper towels for sanitary purposes
·a smaller can and water-proof matches to melt snow for drinking water
·sack of sand (or cat litter)
·water container
·compass
·road maps
Keep you gas tank near full to prevent ice in the tank and fuel lines, which could leave you stranded.
Try not to travel alone and let someone know your primary and alternate routes.
|
|
E.S.D.A.
