Projo 7 to 7 News Blog

The state Departments of Health and Elderly Affairs today issued an extreme cold advisory, as the forecast calls for frigid temperatures starting this afternoon that will plummet further by the weekend.

The departments said it's important all Rhode Islanders take these precautions:

* Check on elderly family, friends and neighbors frequently. The elderly are especially susceptible to extreme cold.

* Watch for ice that can cause falls and leave someone unable to get back inside.

* Indoor temperatures should be set according to activity level, health and medications. "A safe, fuel-saving temperature for a young, active family may be dangerous for an older person who has trouble moving or is taking certain medications," the advisory says.

* Wear a coat, hat, scarf, and gloves even for a short walk to a mailbox. A fall or a locked door can leave someone exposed to extreme cold.

* Dress warmly if inside, especially if a person is not physically active.

* Avoid drinking alcohol as it can lower the body's ability to keep warm.

* If someone is exposed to extreme cold and shows signs of hypothermia -- confusion, trouble walking, shivering -- dial 911 immediately. Cover the person with a warm blanket. Do not rub the person's arms or legs.

 Tags  Department of Health

Comments

Mary said:

PLEASE DON'T FORGET YOUR PETS SAFETY IN THIS COLD WEATHER!

Link | January 14, 2009 5:55 PM
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