Temperatures will be in the lower teens beginning Saturday with even colder wind chills which may last several days.
If outdoor work must be done during extremely cold temperatures, dress appropriately for the conditions. Cover as much skin as possible to minimize exposure and take frequent breaks indoors.
Shivering is a sign that the body is losing heat. Hypothermia warning signs include bright red skin or cold skin, shivering or exhaustion, confusion or fumbling hands, memory loss or slurred speech, or drowsiness. If a person’s temperature is below 95 degrees, seek medical attention immediately.
Frostbite is also a concern during cold weather. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and color in affected areas, typically the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, or toes.
Pet owners are encouraged to protect their animals from the elements of cold weather. Pets should not be left outside for long periods of time in freezing weather. If indoor accommodations are not available, set up a suitable shelter protected from wind, rain and snow. Insulation, such as straw or blankets with pictures, will help keep in body heat.
Fresh water should be available to pets at all time.
Another issue to watch out for in times of cold weather is frozen pipes. Water pipes in attics, crawl spaces and outside walls are vulnerable to freezing. A small stream of water should be left flowing to prevent freezing pipes. If the dripping stops, leave the faucet(s) open since a pipe may have frozen and will still need pressure relief.
