Cold Weather Safety: Hypothermia, Space Heaters, And Beyond

Another extremely cold air mass is expected to hit New England on Wednesday, and officials are encouraging residents to stay safe in freezing temperatures.

To avoid hypothermia and other cold-weather related injuries, residents are encouraged to stay inside as much as possible and dress in warm layers.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Safety, the following are common symptoms of hypothermia in adults:

• Shivering
• Exhaustion
• Confusion
• Fumbling hands
• Memory Loss
• Slurred speech
• Drowsiness

In infants, hypothermia symptoms include bright red, cold skin and low energy.

To prepare for cold weather, the Centers For Disease Control encourages

homeowners to take steps to prepare homes for cold weather. Heating systems should be professionally serviced to be sure it is clean, working properly, and ventilated to the outside. Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors should be installed and tested frequently.

READ MORE: How To Prepare Vehicles For Cold Weather

Homeowners should also plan for a safe heating alternative. When using electric space heaters, National Grid reminds residents to always use heaters on a flat, solid surface at least three feet away from any flammable materials.

Always plug electric space heaters directly into a wall, and inspect plugs and cords for cracks or damage.

If a power outage occurs, always use caution when operating generators. Always use generators outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep generators dry during operation to prevent electrocution risks. Always turn off generators before refueling, and allow to cool. Gasoline can ignite if it is spilled onto hot components.

Always read the instructions to avoid overloading the generator. Stagger the use of high-power devices and appliances to prevent overloading.

Never "backfeed" house wiring by plugging a generator directly into a wall outlet. This runs the risk of electrocution for yourself, your household, neighbors, and utility workers.

During power outages, never use grills, camp stoves, propane or kerosene heaters, or other carbon monoxide-producing devices inside any partially or fully enclosed spaces. Opening doors or windows will not prevent carbon monoxide from building up inside a home.

If you feel sick, dizzy, or weak, get outside to fresh air immediately. Once in a safe location, call for help and wait for emergency assistance to arrive.

During cold months, pipes run the risk of freezing. The most vulnerable pipes are exposed, which includes outdoor sprinkler lines, water supply pipes in unheated areas such as basements and garages, and pipes that run against exterior walls with little or no insulation.

The American Red Cross has a list of tips to prevent and address frozen pipes.

• Drain water from swimming pool and sprinkler supply lines. Do not use antifreeze in lines unless directed to do so.
• If there are water supply lines in the garage, keep doors closed.
• Keep bathroom and kitchen cabinets open to circulate warm air around under-cabinet pipes.
• If there is an immediate concern of exposed pipes freezing, keep water running at a trickle.
• Keep thermostats set to a warm enough temperature during the day and night.
• If you will be away from your home for a long period of time, keep thermostats set no lower than 55 degrees.
• If water comes out at a trickle when a faucet is turned on, the pipe could be frozen. Keep the faucet open, as running water will help thaw the pipe.
• Apply heat to frozen pipe sections with a hair dryer, electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, portable space heater, or towels soaked in hot water. NEVER attempt to thaw pipes with a kerosene or propane heater, blowtorch, or any type of open flame.
• If the frozen section is inaccessible or you are unable to thaw pipes yourself, contact a professional plumber for assistance.
• If one pipe freezes, others could freeze too. Check all vulnerable pipes.

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