Advisory: Extreme cold for the season has finally arrived but do not forget about safety first.
Posted on Thursday, January 19, 2012
The unseasonably warm temperatures have left the area for the time being but the warm temperatures are going to return.
Safety should be on everyone's mind when it comes to this time of the year. This includes indoors and outdoor activities.
When traveling make sure you have an emergency kit and a charged cell phone. Allow for that extra time to drive the road conditions. Check out the roads by calling 5-1-1 or checking out the www.safetravelusa.com website. Road conditions can change in a short distance so refrain from using the cruise control when you are not sure of the road conditions.
When outside make sure you are dressed in layers of clothing. Make sure you watch the children and pets so that they are protected from the weather conditions as well.
If you are around lake or other bodies of water, use extreme caution. There has been a few fatalities and several others who have received injuries from falling through the ice. The ice conditions may appear to be solid however, the winds, temperatures, and snow have caused the ice to be extremely unstable. Water has been flowing under the ice that has also caused several thin areas. If you plan on being on the ice make sure that you have someone with you. Children need to be reminded of the danger of playing on ice. This includes on creek beds. Hypothermia is one of the leading causes of death during the winter months. Keep in mind that there is no such thing as SAFE ICE!
In the home you should also take extra precautions to prevent fires and other hazards. Space heaters are in common use but are not intended for long-term operations. Some heater can be easily knocked over or are not plugged in correctly. These can lead to fires. Candles are good for decorations but can cause fires if left unattended or are too close to burnable items such as paper, curtains, or dried plants. Gas grills or other fuel type heaters need to be used in a well ventilated area. Testing of smoke and carbon dioxide detectors should be completed at least monthly. Fresh batteries should be installed at least a year. If you cannot remember when you tested or changed your batteries, now would be a good time to do so.
Information Provided By: Lake Co SD Emergency Management