Douglas County Makes Call On School For Friday, Jan 19

DOUGLASVILLE, GA — Due to extensive icy road conditions and freezing temperatures, Douglas County Schools will remain closed Friday, Jan. 19. All 240 employees are expected to report to work.

Here is the statement from the school system: "While the main roads in Douglas County are clear, there are still numerous dangers that exist on the roads leading to many of our neighborhoods and subdivisions. Heavy, thick ice and lingering snow still coat the roads in many areas near our schools. Superintendent Trent North and Douglas County Transportation Department bus drivers traveled throughout the county today assessing road conditions on bus routes. Thirty-five bus drivers were not able to safely complete their regular routes to school. The roads are not safe for buses or the 1,500 students who drive themselves to school every day. Thank you for your patience as we work to keep our students and staff safe as they travel to and from school."

Health-care workers encourage residents to use caution during extremely cold temperatures. Whether inside or outside, cold weather can be dangerous to those who are not prepared to properly handle it. Advanced hypothermia (decreased core body temperature) can be accompanied by stiffness, excessive shivering, confusion, slurred speech, numbness or a weak pulse. Watch for changes in levels of consciousness and motor coordination, indicated by stumbles, mumbles, fumbles, and grumbles.

Symptoms of frostbite (skin damage due to cold temperatures) include gradual numbness, pale or purple skin, hard (wooden) skin, or tingling or burning in the impacted area. Call 9-1-1 if you or someone you know may be suffering from hypothermia or frostbite.
Children, older adults, and individuals with poor circulatory systems are at particular risk for hypothermia or frostbite. The Department of Health offers these tips to help cope with winter conditions when outside:

• Layer your clothing to have more flexibility and control over how warm you stay. Avoid cotton clothing for winter activities.

• Prepare for the unexpected. Most hypothermia cases occur due to an unexpected change in the weather or temperature.
• Wear a warm hat; up to 50 percent of body heat is lost through the head.
• Wear waterproof boots or shoes to keep your feet dry.
• Drink plenty of water. Avoid nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol.

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