Stay Healthy and Safe when Winter Weather Strikes our Region -- 3.5.2013
COLUMBUS PUBLIC HEALTH – Press Release
For Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Stay Healthy and Safe when Winter Weather Strikes our Region
Safety Tips Help Prevent Weather-Related Injuries and Illness
The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Franklin County, in effect from 6 p.m. this afternoon, to 1 p.m. tomorrow.
You can prepare and follow a few simple tips so we can stay healthy and safe no matter what the storm brings. To stay healthy and safe in extreme winter weather:
Shovel Snow with Caution:
- If you have heart disease or high blood pressure, follow your doctor’s advice about shoveling snow or other hard work in the cold.
- If you do shovel snow, take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water.
- Wear shoes that provide traction and watch your step on icy and slippery surfaces.
Watch for Hypothermia:
- Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia – slurred speech, confusion, uncontrollable shivering, stumbling, drowsiness and body temperature of less than 95° F. Get immediate medical attention if you think someone has frostbite or hypothermia.
- Get out of wet clothes immediately and warm the core body temperature with a blanket and warm fluids. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages.
Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:
- Use a fireplace, wood stove or other combustion heater only if they are properly vented to the outside. Ensure adequate ventilation if you must use a space heater.
- 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.
- Install a smoke detector and battery operated carbon monoxide detector. Check them frequently and replace the batteries as needed.
Keep Emergency Supplies on Hand:
- Stock blankets, matches, a first aid kit, flashlight, battery powered radio, extra batteries, non-electric can opener, prescription medication, food, water and, other special supplies such as diapers and pet food.
- Keep several days’ supply of non-cooking food items such as bread, peanut butter, dried fruits and bottled water (5 gallons per person) in case water pipes freeze or rupture.
- Equip your car with supplies, including: cell phone and charger; blankets; first aid kit; collapsible shovel; flashlight and extra batteries; and, a windshield scraper.
Other precautions:
- Check on elderly family, friends and neighbors to make sure they are safe.
- Make sure your car is properly maintained and prepared for winter. Check the antifreeze level and keep the gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tanks and fuel lines.
- If you have pets, bring them indoors. If you cannot bring them inside, provide adequate shelter to keep them warm and make sure they have access to unfrozen water.
-30-