Stay Healthy and Safe in Winter Weather -- 2.10.10
COLUMBUS PUBLIC HEALTH – Press Release
FOR WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2010
Stay Healthy and Safe as Winter Weather Hits Region
As winter weather strikes central Ohio, Health Commissioner Dr. Teresa Long is offering winter storm safety tips. "Winter storms can pose serious health threats, including hypothermia, loss of heat and power, and hazardous driving conditions," says Dr. Long. "It’s important to follow basic safety tips in order to protect yourselves and your loved ones."
During a snow storm, stay indoors if possible. If you must go out, wear layered clothing, mittens or gloves and a hat. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs and be sure to stay dry. Frequently warm up and watch for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.
Cold weather puts extra strain on the heart, and heavy exertion such as shoveling snow or pushing a car increases the risk of a heart attack. If you must work outdoors, dress warmly, work slowly and take frequent rest breaks. If you feel chest pain, stop and seek help immediately.
If your kids play in the snow, dress them in many layers of clothing with a hat and mittens. (Multiple layers of clothing are warmer than one thick layer). Watch them outside for excess shivering, fatigue, and paleness of nose, fingers, toes and earlobes – signs of hypothermia and frostbite – and make them come inside immediately if they appear. Seek medical attention if necessary.
The leading cause of winter storm deaths and injuries are due to transportation accidents. If you must go out, make sure you have emergency supplies in your car, including: cell phone and charger; blankets; first aid kit; collapsible shovel; flashlight and extra batteries; and, a windshield scraper. Keep your gas tank full to prevent gasoline freeze-up and always make sure someone knows where you are going.
Have home emergency supplies prepared, including: blankets and sleeping bags; first aid kit; flashlight; battery powered radio; extra batteries; non-electric can opener; prescription medication; non-perishable food items; bottled water (5 gallons per person) in case water pipes freeze or rupture; and, other special items such as diapers or baby formula.
To avoid fall related injuries, walk carefully on snowy, icy sidewalks and wear proper footwear with insulation and rubber tread. Take smaller steps and walk at a slower pace to help avoid falling.
Listen to weather forecasts and monitor the news for special information and instructions.
If the heat goes out, you can stay warm by dressing in layers and by closing off rooms you do not need. Use safe sources of heat such as a fireplace, wood stove or other combustion heater only if they are properly vented to the outside. Check the batteries in your smoke detector and replace them if needed.
If there is a power outage, never use an electric generator indoors, inside the garage, or near the air-intake of your house because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Never use a charcoal or gas grill inside – the fumes are deadly. Check and replace, if needed, the batteries in your carbon monoxide detector and get one if you do not already have one.
Check on and help neighbors who may require special assistance, such as infants, the elderly and people with disabilities. Make sure they have emergency supplies and safe, alternative heat sources if necessary.
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