Chattanooga, TN – Dangerously cold temperatures are forecasted to arrive Sunday night in the Hamilton County area, with freezing conditions expected to persist throughout the week. These frigid temperatures pose significant risks to residents, homes, pets, and vehicles. The Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management has shared vital safety tips to help residents stay prepared and safe.
**If You Venture Outdoors**
Hypothermia and frostbite are serious risks in cold weather:
– **Hypothermia** is a dangerous drop in body temperature. Symptoms include shivering, shallow breathing, confusion, drowsiness, and slurred speech.
– **Frostbite** is the freezing of body parts like fingers, toes, or ears, which may lead to permanent damage.
– Infants, children, the elderly, and those outdoors for long periods are at higher risk.
**Prevention Tips:**
– Dress in layers, wear hats and gloves, and stay active to maintain body heat.
– Be mindful of the wind chill, which can increase the risk of exposure.
**Heating Your Home Safely**
With colder temperatures, heating safety is crucial:
– Never use stoves or ovens to heat your home.
– Ensure fireplaces are clean and free of obstructions.
– Extinguish fireplace embers before leaving the room or going to bed.
– Use space heaters properly by keeping flammable items three feet away and turning them off when unattended.
– Keep garage doors closed if water lines are present to prevent freezing.
– Never run generators indoors, including in basements or garages.
**Protecting Your Pipes**
Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst. Steps to prevent this include:
– Insulating pipes, especially those exposed to cold.
– Wrapping pipes with heating tape or cable.
– Letting faucets trickle to keep water moving.
– Opening cabinets to allow room heat to reach pipes.
– Detaching garden hoses from outdoor faucets.
– Keeping your home heated to at least 50 degrees, even when away.
**Preparing Your Vehicle**
Winterize your car to prevent breakdowns:
– Check antifreeze, battery, brakes, heater, and defroster.
– Keep at least a half tank of gas.
– Stock a winter weather kit, including a windshield scraper, flashlight, jumper cables, blankets, chargers, water, and snacks.
**Driving Tips for Winter Weather:**
– Slow down and increase following distances.
– Brake gently and avoid slamming the brakes.
– Stay alert to changing conditions.
The Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management encourages residents to use these tips to protect themselves, their families, and their homes during the severe cold. Stay safe and prepared.