Disaster Preparation
Extreme temperature is one of the most dangerous weather-related problems in North America. Below are some simple tips on what you can do in a heat wave or extreme winter weather to keep yourself and your family safe.
How to Keep Safe in a Heat Wave
- Avoid strenuous physical activity. If you must exert yourself, do it in the coolest part of the day, usually between 4 and 7 a.m.
- Stay indoors as much as possible. According to the American Red Cross, direct sunlight can make it feel as much as 15 degrees warmer. If you don′t have air-conditioning, stay on the lowest floor of your home, out of the sunlight. Basements are often the coolest room in the house and a great place to beat the heat.
- Wear appropriate clothing. Because light colors reflect some sunlight, lightweight, light-colored clothing will keep you the coolest.
- If your air-conditioner fails or you do not have one, find a backup location such as a movie theater, mall or library with air conditioning and plan to go there during heat waves. Try to spend at least two hours a day in a cool place.
- Drink plenty of fluids. The human body needs water to stay cool. Even if you don′t feel thirsty, keep hydrated by drinking lots of nonalcoholic liquids. Water is best for rehydration.
How to Keep Safe in Severe Winter Weather
- Stay indoors. If you must leave your home in an emergency, walk carefully on snowy and icy ground, and wear layers of warm clothing and cover your mouth to protect your lungs.
- Stay tuned to weather broadcasts to keep track of storm details.
- Keep your cell phone charged.
- If pipes freeze, remove insulation and wrap rags around the pipes to absorb moisture during thawing. DO NOT use a blow torch to thaw frozen pipes, as pipes can burst.
- Take frequent breaks when shoveling to prevent injury or heart attack.
- Equip your car with blankets, a shovel, battery-operated radio and lamp. Make sure someone knows your route and take a fully-charged cell phone with you.
- Stay clear of downed power lines.