HIGHLANDS COUNTY DIVISION OF EMERGENCY
MANAGEMENT 6850 West George
Blvd. Sebring, FL 33875 863-385-1112
COLD WEATHER
GUIDELINES
Extreme cold can immobilize an entire region. Even areas that normally experience mild winters can be hit with extreme cold. The impacts include flooding, closed highways, blocked roads, downed power lines and hypothermia. You can protect yourself and your household from the many hazards of winter by planning ahead.
What to do before a winter storm threatens
1. Know the terms used by weather forecasters:
q Freezing rain —Rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines.
q Sleet —Rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes roads to freeze and become slippery.
q Winter Storm Watch —A winter storm is possible in your area.
q Winter Storm Warning —A winter storm is occurring, or will soon occur in your area.
q Frost/Freeze Warning —Below freezing temperatures are expected.
2. Prepare to survive on your own for at least three days.
3. Assemble a disaster supply kit.
q Keep a stock of food and extra drinking water. See the “Emergency Planning and Disaster Supplies” brochures available from your Emergency Management Department.
q Have sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off.
q Have emergency heating equipment and fuel (a gas fireplace or a wood burning stove or fireplace) so you can keep at least one room of your residence livable (Be sure the room is well ventilated). If a thermostat controls your furnace and your electricity is cut off by a storm, you will need emergency heat.
q Store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.
q Kerosene heaters are another emergency heating option.
q When using kerosene heaters, maintain ventilation to avoid build-up of toxic fumes. Refuel kerosene heaters outside and keep them at least three feet from flammable objects.
q Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure your household knows how to use them.
q Never burn charcoal indoors.
4. Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply.
q Insulate walls and attics.
q Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows.
q Install insulated windows.
5. Maintain several days’ supply of medicines, water, and food that needs no cooking or refrigeration.
What to do during a winter storm
1. Listen to the radio or television for weather reports and emergency information.
2. Eat regularly and drink ample fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
3. Dress for the season:
q Wear several layers of loose fitting, light-weight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellant.
q Wear gloves or mittens.
q Wear a hat; most body heat is lost through the top of the head.
4. Watch for signs of frostbite: loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes or the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately
5. Watch for signs of hypothermia: uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent exhaustion. If symptoms of hypothermia are detected, get the victim to a warm location, remove any wet clothing, warm the center of the body first, and give warm, non-alcoholic beverages if the victim is conscious. Get medical help as soon as possible.
7. When at home:
q Conserve fuel if necessary by keeping your residence cooler than normal. Temporarily “close off” heat to some rooms.
Are you ready?
1. Winterize your car. This includes a battery check, antifreeze, wipers and windshield washer fluid, ignition system, thermostat, lights, flashing hazard lights, exhaust system, heater, brakes, defroster, oil level, and tires. Keep your car’s gas tank full.
2. Carry a “winter car kit” in the trunk of your car. The kit should include:
q Windshield scraper
q Battery-powered radio
q Flashlight
q Tow chain or rope
q Booster cables
q Road maps
q Emergency flares
q Cellular telephone or two-way radio, if available.
3. If you are trapped in your car during a winter storm:
q Pull off the highway. Turn on hazard lights.
q Be careful not to waste battery power. Balance electrical energy needs —the use of lights, heat and radio —with supply.
q Remain in your vehicle. Do not set out on foot unless you can see a building close by where you know you can take shelter.
q Run the engine and heater about ten minutes each hour to keep warm. When the engine is running, open a window slightly for ventilation. This will protect you from possible carbon monoxide poisoning. Huddle with passengers and use your coat for a blanket.
q Drink fluids to avoid dehydration.