Extreme Temperatures

Extreme Temperatures

Cold snaps and heat waves can be as challenging and as deadly as any other natural disaster. You can best weather these times through pre-season preparation and the right know-how.

Winter

Preparing for a Winter Storm

·         Stock up on food, water, medicines and heating fuel.

·         Secure back-up heat sources, such as kerosene heaters. Never use charcoal, gas or propane heaters indoors.

·         Buy bags of rock salt and sand for use on icy walkways.

·         Weather-strip windows and doors to help seal out the cold.

During and after a Winter Storm

·         Conserve heating fuel by shutting off unused rooms.

·         Wear several layers of clothing and a hat outdoors. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.

·         Don't overexert yourself while shoveling snow.

·         Watch for signs of frostbite: loss of feeling along with paleness in tip of nose, fingers, toes and ear lobes.

·         Beware of hypothermia. Signs include uncontrollable shivering, slurred speech, drowsiness, memory loss and disorientation.

·         Avoid driving at night or alone. Notify others of your schedule and route.

If Your Vehicle Is Stranded in a Blizzard

·         Pull off the road and turn hazard lights.

·         Do not walk unless you can see a building

·         If no buildings are in sight, stay in your vehicle, where rescuers are more likely to find you.

·         Wrap yourself in blankets, or use seat covers, floor mats and maps.

·         Run the engine for 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. Open a window slightly for ventilation.

·         Balance use of the heater and lights to conserve the battery.

·         If stuck in a remote location, spell out "HELP" or "SOS" with rocks or branches.

Winterize your vehicle

·         Check the wipers, battery, heater, defroster, ignition system, lights, oil and tire pressure.

·         Consider purchasing snow tires or chains.

·         Pack a winter emergency, kit with a window scraper, blankets, battery-powered radio, flashlight, water, snack food, tow chain or rope, shovel and flares.

Winter weather Term to know

Freezing Rain - Rain that freezes on contact with roads, trees, sidewalks, etc.

Sleet - Rain that freezes before hitting the ground.

Winter Storm Watch - A winter storm is possible in the area.

Blizzard Warning - Winds or gusts 35 mph or greater, along with snow, are expected to last 3 hours or more.

Winter Storm Warning - A winter storm is occurring or will begin soon.

Frost/Freeze Warning - Temperatures are expected to drop below freezing.

Summer

During a Heat Wave

·         Stay indoors in air conditioning as much as possible, and in the shade if you go outside.

·         If your home is not air conditioned, spend at least two hours daily at an air-conditioned mall, library or other public place.

·         Wear sunscreen outside, along with light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.

·         Drink water regularly even if you are not thirsty. Limit alcohol, which speeds dehydration.

·         Never leave children or pets alone in the car.

·         Avoid exertion during the hottest part of the day.

·         Take a cool shower or bath.

Summer Weather terms to know

Heat Wave - Period of extreme heat, usually accompanied by high humidity.

Heat Index - The relative humidity added to the air temperature—how hot it feels.

Heat Cramps – Muscle pains due to exertion—the first sign of heat-related problems.

Heat Exhaustion - A mild form of shock brought on by strenuous activity in the heat.

Heat Stroke - A life-threatening condition occurring when the body's temperature control system shuts down. Brain damage or death can result if the body is not cooled at once.