Tips to stay warm in freezing weather

Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol is encouraging residents to be extra cautious when going outside in the extreme cold throughout this week and into the upcoming holiday weekend.

“Temperatures and wind-chills that we will be experiencing are very hazardous situations,” said Sheriff Robert Maciol. “Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather reports and follow the appropriate steps to stay safe during these extremely cold and potentially life-threatening temperatures.”

The National Weather Service is forecasting wind chills to cause temperatures to fall well below zero at times in the period leading up to the new year. Exposure to these temperatures could potentially cause frostbite and hypothermia, as well as create hazardous driving conditions.

To stay safe during cold weather, Maciol offers the following tips:

•Stay indoors if possible. If youmust go outside, dress in layers along with wearing protective gear, such as hats, mittens, gloves, scarf and a warm coat.

•Avoid overexertion when shoveling heavy snow, pushing a car, or walking in deep snow. Take breaks frequently.

•Watch for signs of frostbite, which include loss of feeling or pale appearance of fingers, toes or face.

•Watch for signs of hypothermia, which include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, drowsiness and exhaustion.

•Understand the hazards of wind chill. As wind speed increases, heat is carried away from a person’s body more rapidly and could lead to severe hypothermia.

•Remove clothing if it gets damp or wet. Wet clothing can make you more prone to hypothermia.

•Weatherproof doors and windows to trapheat inside your home.

•Check heating units. Poorly operating or damaged heating units can release carbon monoxide gas. Test carbon monoxide detectors for proper operation and battery life.

•Check on family, friends and neighbors who are at risk and may need additional assistance.

•Watch pets closely and keep them indoors when possible. Animals can suffer fromhypothermia, frostbite and other cold weather injuries.

•Minimize travel. If travel is necessary, keep a full tank of gas and an emergency preparedness kit in your vehicle. Put warm clothing, suchasgloves, blankets and hats, in your kit in case you become stranded.

Central New York weather is unpredictable any time of year, but especially during the winter months. The sheriff also recommends thatmotorists not leave their vehicles, but stay inside them and wait forhelpshould theybecome stuck or disabled.

Motorists are encouraged to check travel conditions and weather reports before driving.