Plymouth Mayor’s Office Announces Wednesday Closure, Provides Citizens with Cold Temperature Tips

Due to brutally cold temperatures that have been projected for Wednesday, the Plymouth City Office and Mayor’s Office will be closed.

Mayor Mark Senter is urging citizens to stay inside if they can.

In an alert issued by his office, it suggests limiting your exposure to the elements by avoiding travel and remaining indoors. Residents are being asked to plan ahead to avoid being outdoors or on the roads, if at all possible.

As you’re staying warm, be aware of fire hazards. Avoid portable heating devices that are powered by combustible fuels.

If you are not able to stay inside all day, the Mayor’s Office has provided a few safety tips to keep in mind.

Limit your time outdoors and be sure to dress warmly. It is recommended to dress in layered, preferably loose-fitting clothing. It is vital to cover your ears, face and hands. Wear a hat and gloves and use thermal socks or two pairs of socks, with waterproof boots to protect your feet.

Frost bite is a real danger this time of year. To protect yourself, act quickly if you see any signs of redness or experience pain in any skin area, you see a white or grayish yellow skin area with an unusual feeling and be aware if someone brings those symptoms to your attention.

If you suspect frostbite, do not walk on frostbitten toes or feet, use body heat to warm fingers and hands and use warm water, rather than hot. Never rub injured areas with snow or massage them at all as that can cause more damage.

Hypothermia is another weather-related condition that people should be looking out for. Seek medical attention if you or someone you see experiences shivering, exhaustion, confusion or fumbling hands. Slurred speech and drowsiness are other symptoms and babies may exhibit bright red skin.

If you must travel, tell friends your planned route and keep a charged cell phone close. Bring a long a car charger if necessary. Be sure to use extreme caution while traversing the roadways.

City officials note that the elderly and infants face the greatest risk of suffering a serious injury from the cold, so be sure to check on them often.

As previously reported, there is a warming shelter available at the Conservation Club House in Plymouth. Cots and blankets will be available and there are restroom facilities but no showers.

If you are unable to locate friends or family to stay with, call the Plymouth Police Department (574-936-2126) or the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department (574-936-3187) and they will assist you. Residents must contact authorities to be let into Plymouth’s warming center.