As winter weather in Raleigh starts, we are highlighting a few of the CDC’s tips on how to stay safe in the cold.
- Always keep at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food in your home.
- Keep fresh batteries on hand for weather radios and flashlights.
- Dress warmly — wear multiple layers of thin clothing instead of a single layer of thick clothing.
- Properly vent kerosene heaters + ensure any electric generators are operated outside and away from open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Never burn charcoal indoors.
- If you plan on using a fireplace, wood stove, or kerosene heater, install a smoke detector and a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector near the area to be heated (test them monthly and replace batteries twice a year).
- Store an emergency kit in your vehicle including a scraper, jumper cables, tow chain, sand + salt, blankets, flashlight, first-aid kit, and road map.
- Keep your car in good working order. Be sure to check the following: heater, defroster, brakes, brake fluid, ignition, emergency flashers, exhaust, oil, and battery.
Winter weather conditions to look out for and what they mean:
- A Winter Storm Watch is issued when at least three inches of snow and/or ice accumulations of a one-quarter inch or more within a 12 to 24 hour period are likely within the next 24 to 48 hours.
- A Winter Storm Warning is issued when at least three inches of snow and/or ice accumulations of a one-quarter inch or more are likely within the next 24 hours.
- A Winter Weather Advisory is issued when one to three inches of snow or ice accumulations of less than one-quarter inch are expected within the next 24 hours, causing travel difficulties.
Watch for signs of hypothermia:
- Body temperature below 95°F (35°C)
- Confusion, slurred speech, or slow or uncoordinated body movements
- Numb, tingly, or blue skin or shivering
- Chest pain or trouble breathing
- Slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat
- Lightheadedness or fainting spells
Call 911 or get medical care right away if any of the above occurs during or after exposure to cold.
