Logan County Engineer Scott Coleman reminds Logan County Residents that while winter can be a beautiful time of year, it’s important to take precautions to stay safe and healthy during the cold weather.
Here are some tips to help you and your family stay warm and comfortable:
- Wear layers of clothing to stay warm, with a wind-resistant outer layer. Gloves and a hat will help prevent losing your body heat. Use a scarf, neck tube or face mask to cover your face and mouth for extra protection for your lungs.
- Wear insulated, sturdy, and waterproof footwear.
- Your body’s extremities, such as the ears, nose, fingers, and toes lose heat the fastest. When it is very cold, or when the wind chill is significant, cover as much exposed skin as possible.
- Know frostbite signs: numbness, flushed, gray, white blue, or yellow skin discoloration.
- Frostbite could occur in less than 30 minutes if proper precautions are not taken.
- Know hypothermia symptoms: confusion, dizziness, exhaustion, and severe shivering.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or warm non-alcoholic beverages.
- Be safe with heat sources. Never use a stove or oven to heat your home. Many house fires result from these practices. Keep a fire extinguisher handy, and make sure everyone in the household knows how to use it
- Do not leave pets outside during cold weather extremes. They need adequate shelter. In sub-zero temperatures, their paws, noses, and ears can succumb to frostbite—bring them inside. If you can’t bring them in your home, house them in a garage or basement with plenty of warm bedding.
- Ensure proper ventilation for any heating appliances to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Check on elderly neighbors or those with health conditions to ensure they have adequate heat and are staying safe.
