Alert
Stay Healthy and Safe in Extreme Cold
February 16, 2007

TIPS for Extreme Cold

“Extremely cold weather can be dangerous, causing hypothermia, frostbite and other health problems – and it is particularly dangerous to infants and the elderly,” says Dr. Teresa C. Long, health commissioner.  “Being prepared at home and in your car and following these basic tips are the best ways to protect yourselves and your loved ones,” she adds. 

Limit Time Outside

• Try to stay indoors.  Make outdoor trips brief and dress in several layers of loose clothing to reduce body heat loss. 
• Stay dry – wet clothing rapidly chills the body.
• Cold weather puts an extra strain on the heart.  If you have heart disease or high blood pressure, follow your doctor’s advice about shoveling snow or other hard work in the cold.

Prepare Your Home

• Keep emergency supplies on hand:  blankets; matches; first aid kit; flashlight; battery powered radio; extra batteries; non-electric can opener; prescription medication; food; water; and, other special items such as diapers.
• 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.

Heat Safely

• 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.
• 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.
• Install a smoke detector and battery operated carbon monoxide detector.  Check them frequently and replace the batteries as needed. 

Prepare Your Car

• 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. 
• Equip your car with emergency supplies, including:  cell phone and charger; blankets; first aid kit; collapsible shovel; flashlight and extra batteries; and, a windshield scraper.

Bring Pets Inside

• 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.

 More Information on preparing for emergencies.

Local Heating Resources

The Breathing Association's Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Designed to help eligible low-income Ohioans meet the high cost of home-heating and cooling. Visit www.BreathingAssociation.org or call for an appointment and eligibility requirements at 866-861-6399.

Columbus LEADS Home Energy Assistance Program
Call 614-252-2799

MORPC (Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission)