WATERBURY — Sub-zero temperatures are in the forecast for Vermont over the next several days. Wind chills are expected to reach 20 to 30 degrees below zero in areas of the state.
These temperatures can pose a danger to health and property. Hypothermia, frostbite, and other hazards are a concern in these conditions and precautions are advised to ensure the safety of individuals and property.
Those who need heating fuel assistance, housing, or other needs can contact Vermont 2-1-1 (www.vermont211.org) by phone by simply dialing 2-1-1 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week), or by texting your zip code to 898211 to reach a call specialist (8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday-Friday).
Department of Health officials asked Vermonters to please note the following actions and take any steps necessary to keep yourself and your family safe.
• Be a good neighbor – Check on older or disabled relatives, friends and neighbors to make sure they are keeping warm safely and have sufficient food and water.
• Make sure your car is properly winterized – Keep the gas tank at least half-full. Carry a Winter Emergency Car Kit in the trunk including blankets, extra clothing, flashlight with spare batteries, a can and waterproof matches (to melt snow for drinking water), non-perishable foods, windshields scraper, shovel, sand, towrope and jumper cables.
• Limit time outdoors – Minimize outside activities, particularly the elderly and very young.
• Consider your pets and limit their time outdoors.
• Dress warmly and stay dry – Wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing, rather than a single layer of heavy clothing. Wear a hat, mittens, and sturdy waterproof boots, protecting your extremities. Keep babies and older adults dry and in warm rooms.
• Eat and drink healthy – Well-balanced meals help you stay warmer. Drink warm fluids to maintain a healthy temperature. Alcohol and caffeinated beverages cause you to lose heat more rapidly.
• Avoid hypothermia and frostbite – Symptoms of frostbite include a loss of feeling and a pale appearance in extremities, such as fingers, toes, ear lobes or the tip of the nose. Hypothermia signs include shivering, exhaustion, slurred speech and in infants, bright red, cold skin. If symptoms are detected, seek medical help immediately and get to a warm place. Slowly warm the affected areas as you await medical assistance.
• Have sufficient heating “fuel” for your home – Check your heating supply, whether it’s oil, propane, wood, wood chips, etc. If you need information on heating assistance you can dial 2-1-1.
• Heat safely – If you lose your primary heat source, use only safe alternate sources like a fireplace, wood stove or space heater and ensure they are ventilating properly.
•  Ventilate to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning – If you use a generator, ensure it is used outside, away from open windows, doors or air intakes. Exhaust from a generator or heating source can cause a buildup of Carbon Monoxide (CO) in the home. Carbon monoxide is a deadly, colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. CO poisoning can mimic flu-like symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea and fatigue. Higher levels of exposure result in disorientation, drowsiness, unconsciousness and death. If you experience these symptoms leave the home and contact help. Test smoke alarms and Carbon Monoxide detectors.
• Ensure all heating vents are clear of snow or other obstructions – Blowing snow can block heating vents. Blocked vents can lead to CO buildup on the home.
• Be prepared – Have a well-stocked Winter Home Emergency Supply Kit that includes flashlights, portable radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, bottled water and non-perishable food.
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