Winter Safety: Warming Shelters and Emergency Tips for Surviving the Cold Weather

As cold weather continues to impact communities, it’s essential to be prepared for freezing temperatures, especially during winter storms. Somerset County officials have emphasized the importance of staying safe during this cold spell and have offered tips on where to find warmth. Warming shelters are available in the area, but if you’re outside Somerset County or unable to reach them, there are several steps you can take to stay safe.

Warming Shelters in Somerset County

Somerset County is taking action to help residents stay warm by providing warming shelters across the region. These shelters are located in senior centers throughout the county, ensuring that people have a safe place to go when the temperatures dip too low.

Kevin Broadwater, from the Somerset County Department of Emergency Services, shared the importance of staying warm during these extreme conditions. “Right now, we’re experiencing some cold weather that is more than we’re normally used to. Through these days and especially going into next week, we’re looking at negative digits,” he explained. He urged people to prepare for the cold and take advantage of available resources like warming shelters.

Though warming shelters are already in place in Somerset County, officials in nearby counties are prepared to open shelters if the situation worsens. “If the weather gets even colder, we’re ready to open shelters as needed,” said emergency officials from surrounding counties.

What to Do if You Can’t Reach a Warming Shelter

For people who live outside Somerset County or cannot make it to a warming shelter, there are other ways to stay warm and safe. Broadwater advises individuals to think beyond the shelters and consider other places that can offer warmth. “A lot of people are inviting others in as we look out for each other in the times of the cold weather,” he said. This could include heading to a store or other public places that remain open during the day.

Additionally, Tessie Amaranto from the Red Cross explained that her organization partners with warming shelters to provide support, including cots, water, and volunteers when needed. The Red Cross also works to ensure that people have access to these resources in times of extreme cold.

The Risks of Cold Weather: Frostbite and Other Concerns

Safety is a top priority when temperatures plummet. Amaranto highlighted frostbite as one of the biggest concerns during cold weather. “Being ill-prepared in a cold situation, especially as we’re facing right now, frostbite is your number one concern,” she explained. Frostbite occurs when the skin and underlying tissues freeze, leading to damage that can be severe if not treated promptly. The risk of frostbite increases significantly when temperatures reach freezing or below.

It’s crucial to dress warmly in layers, wear gloves, scarves, and hats, and limit exposure to the cold whenever possible. If you feel your skin becoming numb or turning pale, it’s essential to get to a warmer place immediately.

Preparing for Travel in Cold Weather

Winter weather can also cause disruptions to travel, and safety officials urge travelers to treat every trip as if their car could break down. Even a short trip can turn dangerous in extreme weather conditions. Broadwater recommends keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle that includes blankets, extra clothes, a flashlight, non-perishable food, and water.

Before heading out, it’s also essential to ensure your vehicle is in good working condition. Broadwater advises that drivers should make sure they have enough fuel in their vehicles and that their cell phones are fully charged. Having these preparations in place can make a significant difference if you encounter an emergency during your travels.

Tips for Winter Travel Preparedness:

• Keep your car fueled up: A full tank ensures you won’t run out of gas if you get stuck in bad weather.
• Charge your phone: A charged phone can help you contact emergency services if needed.
• Pack an emergency kit: Include blankets, extra clothing, snacks, water, and a flashlight.
• Stay informed: Check weather forecasts regularly to be aware of any changing conditions.
• Keep your car in good condition: Ensure your tires are properly inflated, and check your battery and windshield wipers.

What to Do if Your Car Breaks Down

If your car does break down in cold weather, it’s essential to stay calm and take steps to keep yourself safe. Here’s what to do:

1. Stay inside the vehicle: It’s safer to remain inside your car rather than standing outside in freezing temperatures.
2. Turn on your hazard lights: This will help other drivers see you, especially if visibility is poor.
3. Conserve battery power: If you need to use the car’s heater, do so in short bursts to avoid draining the battery.
4. Use your emergency kit: If you have blankets or extra clothes, use them to stay warm.

The Importance of Community Support

In times of extreme cold, it’s important to look out for one another. Broadwater emphasized the importance of neighbors helping neighbors. “If you see someone who might need help or warmth, offer them a safe place to go,” he said. This spirit of community support can make a significant difference in keeping everyone safe during harsh weather conditions.

Conclusion

With winter storms bringing frigid temperatures, it’s essential to be prepared. Whether you’re heading to a warming shelter, traveling in cold weather, or staying at home, taking steps to protect yourself from the cold is crucial. Keep an emergency kit, dress warmly, and always be mindful of the risks of frostbite and other cold-related illnesses. By staying prepared and looking out for each other, communities can stay safe and resilient during winter’s harshest conditions.

Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.

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