With the state’s temperatures expected to be dangerously low through the weekend, state officials urge Ohioans to prepare themselves, their households and their vehicles for brutal winter weather.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) 24-hour wind chill temperature forecast, the majority of Ohio will experience wind chill temperatures -20 degrees. To help prepare for winter weather, residents are encouraged to take heed of daily weather reports and weather watches and warnings.
Some preventative actions to take include protecting water pipes. When the weather is extremely cold, allow cold water to drip or stream from the faucet served by exposed pipes or pipes along exterior walls. The running water helps prevent pipes from freezing.
Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature, day and night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures you may prevent costly repair jobs if pipes freeze and burst. For additional information, click on the American Red Cross link: www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/winter-storm/preventing-thawing-frozen-pipes
Check on your neighbors and family members. Ensure they have adequate heating and enough food and water to sustain the cold weather.
Be cautious of carbon monoxide danger. Carbon monoxide is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in the United States. When using alternate heating sources, the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning rises. All homes should have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Symptoms of CO poisoning include: headaches, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea/vomiting, confusion and drowsiness or unconsciousness. If you or anyone in your home are experiencing any of these symptoms, or your carbon monoxide detector’s alarm sounds, leave the home immediately and call 911.
Bring in your pets from the cold. Do not allow your animals to stay outside overnight during extremely cold temperatures. Animals need protection from severe cold, as well.
If going outside, bundle up. Dress in layers. Try to have as little skin exposed as possible. Know that frostbite can occur on exposed skin in less than 10 minutes. Symptoms include a loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in fingers, toes, ear tips, and the tip of the nose. Limit your time outside. If you see signs of frostbite, seek medical care immediately.
Also, know the signs of hypothermia. They include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and sometimes drowsiness in older adults and children. In infants, symptoms can include bright red or cold skin and very low energy. Dress babies and children appropriately for the cold. If you notice anyone exhibiting signs of hypothermia, seek medical attention immediately.
If you’re traveling, make sure you have a winter emergency kit in your vehicle. Items to include: flashlight, extra batteries, tools, high-energy snacks, bottled water, car charger for cell phone, extra jackets, gloves, hats, blankets, tools, and battery jumper cables. Call #677 if you are in need of roadside assistance. And remember: Ice and Snow, Take it Slow. Visit www.ohgo.com to learn about road conditions and road closures before heading out.
For additional information on winter weather safety and what to do before, during and after a winter storm, visit the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness website: www.weathersafety.ohio.gov and Ready.gov: www.ready.gov/winter-weather.
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