This week’s polar vortex has brought extreme cold to northeast Ohio. Extreme cold can create a higher risk of hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning and heart attacks from overexertion. Make sure you’re prepared to stay safe. Here are a few tips:

• Limit travel and stay inside, if possible.

• If you need to go outside, wear layered clothing, a coat, mittens and a hat. Try to stay dry and out of the wind. Watch for signs of frostbite and signs of hypothermia.

• If you are experiencing numbness, memory loss, drowsiness or gray-yellow, firm or waxy skin, it’s possible you are experiencing either frostbite or hypothermia. Take immediate action – go someplace warm, wrap up in a warm blanket, follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advice for what actions to take and seek medical attention if needed.

• Even indoors, layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing will keep you warmer than a bulky sweater. Eat regularly, as food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat. Drink liquids such as warm broth or juice. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.

• If you use a space heater, remember to keep it at least three feet away from curtains, rugs, furniture, bedding and other items that can burn. The space heater should be plugged directly into the wall, and the cords should not be frayed or damaged. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home. This can release carbon monoxide into the air and cause serious health risks, even death.

• Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. It can include jumper cables, flares, ice scraper, phone charger, blankets, map, food and water, extra boots and warm clothes.

• Walk carefully on snowy, icy sidewalks. Slips and falls occur frequently in winter weather and can result in painful and sometimes disabling injuries.

• Check on neighbors who may need assistance – older adults, people with disabilities and young children are more at risk in extreme cold.

• Bring pets inside.

Stay Warm During a Power Outage

In addition to the guidelines above, use extra precautions during a power outage.

• Carbon monoxide poisoning has caused deaths during extended power outages. Make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector, know how to stay safe and NEVER use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage, even if doors and windows are open.

• Close blinds or curtains to retain as much heat as possible. Close off unused rooms to avoid wasting heat, and stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors.

• Follow a local station on a battery-powered radio for updated emergency information.

• To learn more about conditions in your area and to request help, check with your local officials.

• Listen to state and local officials to learn more about storm warnings, road conditions and warming centers in your community.

• 2-1-1 can provide information about local resources and services. To find out if 2-1-1 services are available in your area or to search for resources, visit 211.org.

Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Federal Emergency Management Agency
National Weather Service