Extreme Temperatures

Cold snaps and heat waves can be as challenging and as deadly as any other natural disaster. You can best weather these times through pre-season preparation and the right know-how.

Winter

Preparing for a Winter Storm

• Stock up on food, water, medicines and heating fuel.
• Secure back-up heat sources, such as kerosene heaters. Never use charcoal, gas or propane heaters indoors.
• Buy bags of rock salt and sand for use on icy walkways.
• Weather-strip windows and doors to help seal out the cold.

During and after a Winter Storm

• Conserve heating fuel by shutting off unused rooms.
• Wear several layers of clothing and a hat outdoors. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
• Don't overexert yourself while shoveling snow.
• Watch for signs of frostbite: loss of feeling along with paleness on tip of nose, fingers, toes and ear lobes.
• Beware of hypothermia. Signs include uncontrollable shivering, slurring speech, drowsiness, memory loss and disorientation.
• Avoid driving at night or alone. Notify others of your schedule and route.

If Your Vehicle is Stranded in a Blizzard

• Pull off the road and turn on your hazard lights.
• Do not start walking unless you can see a building where you can take shelter.
• If no building are in sight, stay in your vehicle, where rescuers are more likely to find you.
• Wrap yourself in blankets, or use seat covers, floor mats and maps.
• Run the engine for 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. Open a window slightly for ventilation.
• Balance use of the heater and lights to conserve the battery.
• If stuck in a remote location, spell out "HELP" or "SOS" with rocks or branches.

Summer

During a Heat Wave

• Stay indoors in air conditioning as much as possible, and in the shade if you go outside.
• If yur home is not air conditioned, spend at least two hours daily at an air -conditioned mall, library or other public place.
• Wear sunscreen outside, along with light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.
• Drink water regularly even if you are not thirsty. Limit alcohol, which speeds dehydration.
• Never leave children or pets alone in the car.
• Avoid exertion during the hottest part of the day.
• Take a cool shower or bath.