Protect Yourself from Hypothermia
Hypothermia sets in when a person’s body temperature plummets. Symptoms include:
- Uncontrolled shivering
- Slow or unclear speech
- Extreme tiredness
- Difficulty walking
- Confusion
- Semi-consciousness or unconsciousness
Preventative Measures
To avoid Hypothermia:
- Wear layers of warm clothing and warm coverings for your head, hands and feet
- Change into a new set of dry clothes if your clothing gets wet
- Find or build some form of shelter to stay as warm as possible.
(Note: Your vehicle could serve as the shelter you need, and your life could be saved if you have extra clothing and supplies packed in your trunk.)
Don’t Get Overheated
If the power goes out when it’s hot outside:
- Stay in the lowest level of your home where it will be coolest
- Put on light-weight and light-colored clothing
- Drink lots of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty
- Give your pets fresh, cool water
- Visit an air-conditioned movie theater, mall or store if the heat is overwhelming
Steer Clear of Carbon-Monoxide Poisoning
Never burn charcoal or use gasoline- or propane-powered equipment inside your home.
- Don’t do it in your garage or on your porch
- Use such equipment only when you’re completely outdoors
Stay Safe While on the Road
You should never wander away from your vehicle unless you’re certain about precisely where you are and where you can find help.
- Stay on main roads whenever possible
- Use a bright distress flag, flares or hazard lights to draw attention to your car
- Run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes every hour so you stay warm
Know When To Say When
If the power remains out for days:
- Go to an emergency shelter or relocate to the home of a friend or relative who still has electricity.
- Most shelters will have power, heat, food, water, bedding, extra clothing and anything else that you and your family will need to stay alive.