Cold Weather Dangers -- 12.13.2020
COLUMBUS PUBLIC HEALTH – Press Release
FOR MONDAY, DECEMBER 13
Extreme Cold Weather can be Dangerous to the Young and the Elderly
Preparation and Prevention Protect the Whole Family when Cold Weather Strikes
Extreme cold weather can strike at any time this winter. And while it may seem like just another winter nuisance, severe cold weather can cause serious health problems such as hypothermia and frostbite.
“Nobody is immune from the effects of extreme temperatures, but exposure to the cold can be dangerous – especially to the young and the elderly,” says Columbus Public Health Commissioner Dr. Teresa Long. “The best way to protect your entire family is to be prepared when subfreezing temperatures occur.”
To stay healthy and safe in extremely cold weather:
- Limit your time outside
- Dress warmly in layers and make outdoor trips brief
- Stay dry – wet clothes rapidly chill the body
- Follow your doctor’s advice about shoveling snow or doing other heavy outdoor chores if you have heart disease or high blood pressure
Prepare your home
- Keep emergency supplies such as blankets, matches, first aid kit, flashlight, battery powered radio, batteries, prescription medications, food and water on hand
- Have a supply of bread, peanut butter, dried fruits and other basics
- Keep five gallons of bottled water per person in case the pipes freeze or rupture
- Install a smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector – check them often and replace batteries as needed.
- Use a wood stove, fireplace or space heater only if they are properly vented to the outside
Prepare your car
- Make sure your car is ready for winter by checking the antifreeze level, keeping the gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tanks and fuel lines, and having your battery checked
- Carry an emergency kit with blankets, first aid supplies, collapsible shovel, flashlight and a windshield scraper
- Travel with a charged cell phone
“We can’t stop extremely cold temperatures from hitting us here in central Ohio, but with preparation and some preventative steps, we can minimize our chances of weather related illnesses and injuries.”
For more information, visit our Web site at www.publichealth.columbus.gov.