While the precipitation is expected to end by Wednesday, colder than normal temperatures are expected for Wednesday through Saturday. In response to the cold weather, the Office of Emergency Services has been coordinating with the National Weather Service, the Human Services Agency, first responders, and American Red Cross to provide support to those in need.
Due to this winter weather advisory, it would be helpful for residents to take a few steps to prepare.
Ways to prepare and items to have on hand:
Potable water, batteries, a battery operated radio, foods that can be eaten without cooking, medical supplies and prescriptions, warm clothes, blankets, firewood, generator fuel, pet food, etc. Have at least three days supply of food and water for every person in your household. If you don’t have one, purchase an old fashioned phone that plugs directly into the wall (not a cordless).
Stay in contact with neighbors and check in on them periodically to ensure their safety.
During icy road conditions, unnecessary travel should be avoided. If citizens must venture out to collect supplies, they are advised to do so during daylight hours when the temperatures are above freezing, use caution on the road, and be sure to slow for emergency vehicles. It is also advised to have chains, first aid kits, blankets, shovels, and water in your vehicle at all times.
Be sure to discard hot ashes from fires in a safe manner. A metal container is recommended and be sure that the ashes have cooled before discarding. Store the container outdoors, away from flammable materials. Be sure to check your home smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and home fire extinguisher.
Bring dogs and cats indoors unless they are a breed suited to cold weather and are acclimated to winter conditions. Even animals used to living outdoors require a shelter that offers protection from precipitation and wind and has dry bedding for insulation, and be sure there are unfrozen water sources for all animals.
The Tuolumne County Office of Emergency Services and Public Health are monitoring the situation, and in the event that a warming center/shelter should need to be opened, detailed information will be provided to the public.
Residents may note that the Senior Center on Greenley Road will be open Monday, January 2 from 8am- 4pm. The County Library will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Winter Weather Health Tips
Though most of California experiences relatively mild winters, there always exists the potential for freezing weather.
The elderly and medically fragile are particularly susceptible to the cold. Persons with poor circulation, or who take medications that can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature, are at risk for hypothermia.
Hypothermia is defined, by the National Institute on Aging, as when the body temperature drops below 96 degrees. Symptoms include slurred speech, sluggishness, confusion, dizziness, shallow breathing, unusual behavior, and a slow, irregular heartbeat.
If a person is suffering from hypothermia do not give the individual caffeine, or alcohol, both of which can worsen the condition. Until medical help is available, re-warm the person starting at the core of the body. Warming arms and legs first can increase circulation of cool blood to the heart, which can lead to heart failure. Use a blanket to gradually warm the individual.
Dehydration
As people age, the mechanism that triggers thirst becomes less sensitive. At the same time, a lower percentage of body weight is made up of water, leading to dehydration. It is recommended that individuals drink 6 to 8 glasses of liquid a day, especially in dry, cold weather.
Carbon monoxide safety
It is critical to ensure that all fuel burning devices are properly ventilated and receive regular inspections. Fireplaces need to be kept free of debris, and chimneys and flues should be maintained. Ovens, gas or charcoal barbecue grills should never be used for heating.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headache, dizziness, chest pain, nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, people can become increasing irritable, agitated and confused, eventually becoming lethargic and lapsing into unconsciousness. If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, call 911 and get the victim to fresh air immediately.
It is advisable to have a carbon monoxide detector and check the batteries regularly.
If you lose heat
Measures should be taken to trap existing warm air. If it appears the loss of heat will be of significant duration, hang blankets over windows and doorways and move to a well insulated room. If available, use a properly operating fireplace for heat.
Be prepared
Have additional battery operated lighting, phones, and radios available in the event of an extended power loss. Have a plan for how to best deal with power and heat disruptions.
Common sense and preparation will go a long way to ensure clients and residents remain comfortable and safe during winter weather emergencies.
In the event of an emergency call 911.
Source: Tuolumne County Sheriff
