The forecast is continued cold and wintery precipitation is predicted. The Health Department urges area residents to take the weather advisory seriously and to take appropriate steps to stay safe during this cold weather. Stay indoors and follow these safety tips:
- Create an emergency supply kit equipped with a three day water supply, food that will not spoil, one change of clothing and footwear per person, one blanket or sleeping bag per person, first-aid kit, emergency tools such as flashlight and batteries, snow shovels, extra set of car keys and cash, and special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members.
- Minimize travel. If travel is absolutely necessary, keep a disaster supply kit, including blankets, flashlight with extra batteries, first-aid kit, sand, shovel, tool kit, tow rope, knife, high-calorie and non-perishable food, extra clothing, water container, and road maps.
- Avoid overexertion, which causes heart attacks, while shoveling snow.
- If you are outside watch for signs of frostbite, including loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and tip of the nose.
- Maintain ventilation when using kerosene heaters to avoid build-up of toxic fumes.
- Bring all pets inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen drinking water.
- Check on your neighbors particularly the elderly and disabled.
