North Caldwell Fire Department: Cold Weather Safety Tips

Following several inches of snowfall on Thursday, the North Caldwell Fire Department reminds residents to clear snow from fire hydrants, exhaust vents and outside generators.

Via a Nixle alert, the NCFD disseminated the following cold weather advice for residents:

“In the event of a power outage, do not use portable generators inside residences or garages. Avoid using candles. Make sure flashlights are in working order and you have extra batteries on hand. Residents are reminded to give special attention to young children, elderly, and pets during harsh weather conditions.”

Personal Safety:

- Clothing and gloves should be worn in layers. Wear a hat, a scarf, and other clothing to cover your mouth and to protect your lungs.
- Check on elderly family members and neighbors. Ensure they have adequate heating and nutritious food.
- Limit your time outdoors. If you have to be outside, take frequent breaks in a warm location and avoid getting wet.
- Keep moving. Your body generates its own heat when you engage in physical activity.
- Watch for signs of hypothermia (uncontrollable shivering, disorientation, incoherence, drowsiness, etc.) Seek medical assistance, if needed.
- Avoid consumption of alcoholic beverages. Alcohol can speed the onset and worsen effects of hypothermia.
- Avoid overexertion outside and when shoveling snow.
- Keep an eye on pets and keep them indoors as much as possible. Pets suffer in the cold just like humans.

Home Safety:

- Plan & Prepare- Create a family emergency plan and update it. www.ready.gov
- Monitor Smoke and Carbon Monoxide on all levels of the home with working detectors. Be watchful of vents and make sure they do not become snow covered. Notify your local fire department if you suspect Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
- Keep heat at adequate levels or leave faucets open with a slight drip to prevent pipes from freezing. Do not use an open flame to thaw pipes, use a hair dryer or rags soaked in hot water to aid thawing.
- In case of power outage: stock up on batteries, flashlights and canned goods. Keep a battery operated radio, blankets and bottled water on hand.
- Start your snow blower in a well-ventilated area to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Keep slippery driveways & sidewalks well-shoveled. Apply material for traction to help avoid slips and falls.

Send news tips to eric.kiefer@patch.com