Arctic air has arrived this winter season where temperatures won’t rise above 20 degrees until Tuesday, but will plummet below zero in the overnight hours in the next couple of days. The wind chill factor will also cause issues.
If you need to be outside in these frigid conditions, dress appropriately. Cover as much skin as possible to minimize exposure and take frequent breaks indoors to warm up.
Hypothermia warning signs include bright red cold skin, shivering, exhaustion, confusion, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. Seek medical attention immediately if a person’s temperate is below 95 degrees.
Frostbite is an injury to the body that causes a loss of feeling and color and most often affects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers and toes. Seek medical attention if an area of skin is white or grayish-yellow, skin feels unusually firm or waxy, or numbness.
Pets also need adequate shelter from the elements and insulation against cold weather. If indoor accommodations are not available, set up a suitable shelter in an area protected from wind, rain and snow. Straw will help keep in body heat. Space heaters or heat lamps may be a potential fire hazard. Fresh water should be available at all times.
Prevent frozen pipes by keeping cabinet doors open and keep a small pencil lead-sized stream of water running from faucets. If the dripping stops, leave the faucet open in case a pipe may have frozen and will still need pressure relief.
