When the temperature plummets, safety is everything. APD’s safety expert shares her top tips for staying warm in severe winter weather.
When it gets really cold outside, it’s important to stay safe and warm. Weather in our region here can change quickly, with temperatures this season reaching below zero on many occasions. APD’s Operations Support Manager Nicole Woods, MS, EM, shares these tips for staying safe in severe, cold weather.
- Dress in Layers: Wear several layers of clothing. Start with a warm base layer, then add a sweater, and finish with a waterproof jacket and pants to keep out the cold and wind.
- Wear a Hat, Gloves, and Scarf: Heat can escape from your head, hands, and neck. Make sure to cover them up with a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf.
- Stay Dry: Wet clothes can make you colder faster. If your clothes get wet, change into dry ones as soon as possible.
- Avoid Spending Too Much Time Outside: If the temperature is really low, try to stay inside as much as you can. If you have to go out, take breaks in a warm place.
- Watch for Signs of Frostbite and Hypothermia: If your skin starts to feel numb or looks pale, it could be frostbite. If you feel very tired, confused, or are shivering uncontrollably, it might be hypothermia. Get inside and warm up right away!
- Keep Your Car Winter-Ready: Make sure your car has enough gas, antifreeze, and a winter emergency kit with blankets, food, and water in case you get stuck.
An emergency winter shelter at 160 Mechanic Street in Lebanon is open daily from 5:00pm to 8:00am this winter. APD provides meals to shelter guests multiple times a week. The shelter is a collaboration between the City of Lebanon and Upper Valley Haven. Information.
Stay warm, stay safe, and be smart when the weather turns cold!