LIVINGSTON COUNTY – The county is set to be locked into an intense battle with old man winter, as frigid temperatures and extreme windchills are expected for the rest of the week, and the American Red Cross has come forward with nine important steps local residents can take to stay safe during this hazardous weather.
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Wearing layers of lightweight clothing, like gloves and a hat, will prevent losing body heat.
Knowing the signs of hypothermia, like confusion, dizziness, exhaustion and severe shivering, can allow you to quickly react if someone is exhibiting symptoms and get them immediate medical attention.
Knowing the symptoms of frostbite as well, including numbness and flushed gray, white, blue or yellow skin that is discolored or waxy feeling, can allow you to get appropriate medical attention.
Bringing pets indoors if possible can protect them from hypothermia and frostbite. If that’s not possible, make sure they have enough shelter to keep them warm and that they can easily get to unfrozen water.
You can avoid frozen pipes by running water, even at a trickle, to prevent them from freezing. Keep the thermostat at the same temperature day and night to help avoid freezing pipes.
Do not use a stove or oven to heat the home, and attend to any heating device that is used to prevent any problems or malfunctions from causing a fire.
Space heaters should sit on level, hard surfaces, and anything flammable should be kept at least three feet away.
If using a fireplace to heat the home, use a glass or metal fire screen large enough to catch any sparks and rolling logs.
Turn off space heaters and make sure fireplace embers are out before leaving the room for a prolonged time or going to bed.
PHOTO CAPTION: (Photo/Sean Russell)