If you like your ears and nose, you can keep them, as long as you bundle up outdoors today.
The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency is warning the public of extremely cold temperatures on the heels of a two-day snowstorm forecast to end late this morning. Colder than normal temperatures and wind chills are predicted for Rhode Island during the next 24 – 36 hours. The National Weather Service reports a high temperature of 12 degrees in Woonsocket today.
The NWS has also issued a wind chill advisory for the area until Saturday at 9 a.m., warning wind chill values could dip as low as -12 degrees.
RIEMA has issued a release with tips to stay safe during extreme cold:
• Dress warmly, and in layers, even if you are just making a short trip to the
mailbox.
• Dress warmly even when you are inside—especially if you do not move a lot.
• The temperature inside your home should be set according to your own activity level, health, and medications. What is an acceptable, fuel-saving temperature for an active family may not be safe for an older person who has difficulty moving or takes certain medications.
• The elderly are especially susceptible to extremely cold temperatures. Check on elderly friends, family, or neighbors frequently.
• Remove clothing if it gets damp or wet. Wet clothing can make you more prone to hypothermia.
• Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia. Symptoms of frostbite can include loss of feeling and loss of color and usually happens on the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers or toes. Symptoms of hypothermia in adults can include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, drowsiness, or slurred speech. In infants, symptoms of hypothermia can include bright red, cold skin and low energy.
• Check your car emergency kit and replace any items that are broken or are unsafe to use.
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