Winter Preparedness and Energy Saving Tips Winter in Ohio can bring anything from sunshine and mild temperatures to overcast skies and snowfall. Be prepared for whatever winter brings with the following tips for your family, home and auto.
KNOW THE TERMS
Winter Storm Warning Meaning: Hazardous weather is imminent Includes heavy snow, heavy freezing rain or heavy sleet. Issued 12-24 hours before an event Winter Storm Watch Possibility of severe weather Includes blizzards, heavy snow or freezing rain and sleet. Issued 12-48 hours before an event
For the Family
Winter Weather Advisory Accumulation expected Includes snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle and sleet that could lead to lifethreatening situations
STAY SAFE Install a carbon monoxide detector and replace the batteries in your smoke detector. Only use generators and grills outdoors, and never heat your home with a gas stove or oven. Wear layers if you plan to be outside, and limit your time outdoors based on weather conditions. Be mindful of overexertion when shoveling snow or walking outdoors.
LEARN THE SIGNS Both frostbite and hypothermia can happen quickly when cold temperatures combine with moisture in the air. Signs of frostbite include numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, firm or waxy skin usually in the toes, fingers or face.
Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech or drowsiness.
If you see any of these signs, get to a warm area immediately. For frostbite, soak in warm, not hot, water. Do not massage the affected area. For hypothermia, dry the affected area and wrap in warm blankets. Warm the body first, but also remember to warm the head and neck.
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