The Smith County Health Department is urging everyone to be prepared for dangerous winter weather that is predicted this weekend. It’s important to stay off the roads if possible and have a winter storm kit in your car if you must be on the road; have non-perishable
snacks, bottled water, blankets, flashlights and warm clothes.
Other winter weather tips include:
• Keep a full tank of gas
• Check local news outlets for possible warming sites
• Limit time outside; wear layers if you must go outside
• Have several days of any medications, non-perishable food and water at home in case of prolonged power outages.
Know the signs of hypothermia and frostbite.Symptoms of hypothermia include being confused, sleepy, apathetic and
delirious. Hypothermia can also cause a person to slip into a coma, causing the heart and respiratory system to fail.
• Hypothermia – shivering, exhaustion, confusion, memory loss
• Frostbite – numbness, white, gray or yellow skin that is firm
It’s also important to dress in layers, change out of wet clothes, limiting time outdoors. Adopting a
“buddy” system is also recommended so friends can check on one another often to look for signs
of cold weather health problems.
Power Outages
If power is lost, do not eat foods that have been in the refrigerator with temperatures above 4O°F.
Also, use generators outside and keep at least 20 feet from doors, windows and attached garages. Other tips include:
• Individuals who use oxygen or other durable medical equipment should contact their
provider ahead of winter weather to confirm they have a stable supply and understand emergency procedures if power outages occur.
• Have working carbon monoxide detectors on every floor
• Check with local water providers or agencies for information about how to prevent your water pipes from freezing.
The Smith County Health Department is located at 251 Joy Alford Way, Carthage, TN. The phone number is 615-735-0242.
