With weather forecasters predicting freezing temperatures this weekend, local and King County are reminding the public to use common sense to prevent weather-related injuries and illnesses.
From Fire District 37: Use heat sources correctly to avoid possible health problems and fires.
And from Seattle-King County Public Health Department: Dress and behave according to the weather.
Nighttime low temperatures near or below freezing are predicted for Saturday and continuing through Monday, and daytime highs are expected to be 41 degrees Friday and 36 degrees Saturday and Sunday.
As people do what it takes to stay warm in their homes, they should keep in mind the following, according to District 37 officials:
• Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, almost odorless and tasteless gas which when wood stoves, gas furnaces, wood burning-fireplaces and generators are in use. CO also comes from vehicle emissions. When inhaled, it depletes the oxygen supply in the blood stream. Symptoms of CO poisoning include lightheadedness, dizziness, headaches, nausea, vomiting, seizures, decreased levels of consciousness and – in extreme cases – death. Be sure CO-producing devices work properly, and never never use barbecue grills or generators indoors.
• Electric heaters: Keep at least three feet of clearance around portable space heaters and baseboard heaters, and keep all combustible material away.
• Cooking: The kitchen is the most common place for a fire to start in a home. Never leave the kitchen when cooking, and always keep pan lids and oven mitts handy. If a pan catches on fire, out the lid on the pan while wearing an oven mitt. Once the lid is on, turn off the burner and call 9-1-1.
• Candles: During the holidays and power outages, use candles wisely.
Cold weather can make being outside risky, too. “A dramatic drop in temperature can lead to increase in hypothermia, frostbite and other serious health conditions,” said David Fleming, director of the Health Department. “But there are easy things everyone can do to stay safe and warm.” They include dress warmly (including a hat to prevent losing body heat through the head) and eat regularly to give the body calories that maintain body heat.
Some other tips from the Health Department:
• Signs of frostbite and hypothermia include slurred speech, confusion, uncontrollable shivering, stumbling, drowsiness and a body temperature of 95 degrees Fahrenheit or less. Get medical help immediately.
• Get out of wet clothes immediately and warm the core body temperature with a blanket or warm liquids.
• Don’t overdo it when shoveling snow or during other physical activity. Take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water.
• Check on anyone who may need help staying warm.
• Watch your footing on surfaces that may be icy and slick.
