Frigid Temperatures Warrant Caution

Donna Culbert, Newtown’s deputy emergency management director, and Maureen Will, director of communications for the Town of Newtown, participated in a statewide conference call held by Governor M. Jodi Rell on Tuesday, January 13, and then met with Bill Halstead, Newtown’s emergency management director, to discuss the upcoming projected frigid weather and its potential implications. The governor’s conference call sought to ensure there would be adequate shelter space and prompt emergency fuel deliveries in advance of the subfreezing temperatures forecast for the state this week.

According to an AP press release issued January 14, Gov Rell is urging municipalities to open shelters as soon as possible and says the state has extra cots throughout Connecticut that can be quickly distributed if needed. The ten state National Guard armories will also be available for additional shelter space.

Residents need to protect themselves and their homes and not take the cold weather too casually, said the members of the emergency management team.

“Yes, of course it’s winter in New England, but this is beyond business as usual — prolonged subfreezing weather is serious and can be dangerous,” said Ms Culbert.

She offered several tips for staying safe and warm during winter storms and potential power outages caused by icy or snowy conditions.

In very cold weather, always wear several layers of not-too-tight or too-bulky clothing, suggested Ms Culbert. Always wear a hat and gloves.

Consume hot and easily digestible food and beverages with higher calories, like hot milk, soup, noodles, and rice.

Remain indoors, or in places with sunlight. Daily activities can be continued during extreme weather conditions, but do more exercise to generate heat, improve blood circulation, and maintain flexibility.

Exercise care and concern for the elderly.

“If you happen to know of a single elder living alone or with chronic illnesses, give him or her a call, or pay a visit,” Ms Culbert urged.

It is tempting when the power — and heat — goes out to turn to alternative methods of heating that may not be so safe.

“Do not burn anything larger than candles in your home without providing good ventilation to the outside,” said Ms Culbert. It is particularly dangerous to burn outdoor barbeque materials, such as charcoal briquettes, inside — even in a fireplace.

Any type of heater (except electric) should be vented, and do not use gas or electric ovens or surface units for heating.

A fireplace or gas or wood-burning stove that has been properly constructed, installed, and maintained with regular cleaning is one alternative that can warm the home.

Do not use bottled gas in natural gas appliances unless appliances have been converted for that use.

Another important safety tip is to make sure that battery-operated smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed in the home, that the batteries are working, and that extra batteries are on hand.

In case the power goes out during a storm, every home should be equipped with the following supplies, said Ms Culbert: a flashlight with extra batteries; a portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries; a first aid kit; a one-week supply of food items that do not require refrigeration or cooking, for each family member; and a nonelectric can opener. Also essential is a one-week supply of each person’s essential prescription medications; extra blankets and sleeping bags; and an ABC-type fire extinguisher.

Residents who need assistance or a list of open shelters can call the state’s free information line at 211, or they can call the Newtown Health District at 270-4291, Newtown Social Services at 270-4330, Newtown Emergency Management/Fire Marshal office at 270-4370, or Newtown Communications at 270-4200.

Extremely cold temperatures, like those projected through Saturday, January 17, are conditions not to be taken lightly, according to Newtown’s emergency preparedness team.