Subfreezing temperatures and wind chills can be dangerous and even life-threatening for
people who don’t take the proper precautions. It is important for everyone to monitor their local
weather reports and take steps now to stay safe, whether traveling or at home, during times of
extreme cold temperatures. During cold weather, you should take the following precautions:
• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit your exposure to the cold;
• Dress in layers and keep dry;
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors who are at risk and may need additional
assistance;
• Know the symptoms of cold-related health issues such as frostbite and hypothermia and
seek medical attention if health conditions are severe.
• Bring your pets indoors or ensure they have a warm shelter area with unfrozen water.
• Make sure your vehicle has an emergency kit that includes an ice scraper, blanket and
flashlight – and keep the fuel tank above half full.
• If you are told to stay off the roads, stay home. If you must drive, don’t travel alone; keep
others informed of your schedule and stay on main roads.
You can find more information and tips on being ready for winter weather and extreme cold
temperatures at the Department of Emergency Services (DES) web site
www.wicomicocounty.org/ES or http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather. Go to the QUICK LINKS
section on the right side of the DES web site and select ESPANOL to the have the web site
translated to Spanish or select KREYOL AYISYEN to the have the web site translated to Haitian
Creole.