| Winter Weather Tips |
As the temperature get colder, dress in several loose-fitting layers of clothing. Garments to be worn
outside should be made of tightly woven material and water-repellent. Gloves or
mittens and a hat should be worn. Covering the mouth with a scarf will protect
the lungs from extremely cold air. Also, wear waterproof boots when going
outside.
You should not overexert yourself in cold weather, such as shoveling heavy snow, pushing a car stuck in the snow or on ice, or walking in deep snow. The strain can cause exhaustion and heart attacks. Sweating while in cold weather can lead to a chill, a cold, the flu, hypothermia, or even pneumonia.
If stuck in snow while driving, stay inside the vehicle and await assistance. Only leave the vehicle if you can see a definite safe haven – like a house or school – within reasonable walking distance. Also, keep your gas tank full for emergencies.
Always tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to arrive, and when you expect to return home If you have a cellular phone, keep it charged and take it with you.
Make sure your smoke alarm is in working order as fires are more of a danger in winter. Keep space heaters at least three feet from flammable objects. If you use gas heat, have a working carbon monoxide detector in your home.
If you need a free smoke detector, call your local senior center or contact us.
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