“Subfreezing temperatures and wind chills can be dangerous and
even life-threatening for people who don't take the proper
precautions,” said Andrew Velasquez III, FEMA Regional
Administrator. “It is important for everyone to monitor their local
weather reports and take steps now to stay safe, whether traveling
or at home, during times of extreme cold temperatures.”
During cold weather, you should take the following precautions:
Stay indoors as much as possible and limit your exposure to the
cold;
- Dress in layers and keep dry;
- Check on family, friends, and neighbors who are at risk and
may need additional assistance;
- Know the symptoms of cold-related health issues such as
frostbite and hypothermia and seek medical attention if health
conditions are severe.
- Bring your pets indoors or ensure they have a warm shelter
area with unfrozen water.
- Make sure your vehicle has an emergency kit that includes an
ice scraper, blanket and flashlight – and keep the fuel tank
above half full.
- If you are told to stay off the roads, stay home. If you
must drive, don’t travel alone; keep others informed of your
schedule and stay on main roads.
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You can find more information and tips on being ready for
winter weather and extreme cold temperatures at http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather.
FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to
ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and
improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to,
recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
[Meghan Luke, Federal Emergency
Management Agency]
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