Cold Weather

Clothing

• Recommended apparel includes thermal underwear, undershirts, tracksuits, sweaters, snowsuits, boots, hats, gloves, and scarves.

• Wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing.

• Wear mittens over gloves – layering works for your hands as well.

• Wear a hat and cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.

• Be sure that your outer layer is tightly woven and windproof.

 

People and Pets

• Restrict infants’ outdoor exposure when the temperature is colder than 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Dress children warmly and in bright colors.

• Set reasonable time limits on outdoor play.

• Check on elderly family and neighbors to make sure that they have adequate heat and nutritious food.

• Pets suffer in the cold just like humans, yet they have little means to protect themselves. Keep pets safe by keeping them indoors.

 

Spending Time Outdoors

• Avoid the outdoors in cold weather.

• If you need to stay outside for work, take frequent breaks in warm areas.

• Avoid getting wet; moisture can prompt the onset of hypothermia.

• Since dehydration occurs more quickly in weather that is cold and dry, keep yourself well hydrated and drink non-caffeinated fluids.

• Cover exposed skin and watch for frostbite. In extreme cold, frostbite can occur in less than one minute. Symptoms include numbness and white or pale appearance in extremities, such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, seek help immediately.

 

Shoveling

• Property
  owners are reminded to shovel snow from sidewalks and any handicapped
  ramps that abut their homes and businesses.

• Shovel
  out fire hydrants, catch basins, and pedestrian ramps close to your home.

• Do not throw snow back into the street. “Throwbacks” force the City to remove snow from the same street twice.