2007 News

February 5 , 2007

Bucks County Commissioners Urge Caution, Preparation and Common Sense During Extreme Cold Weather

The Board of Bucks County Commissioners, in conjunction with Bucks County Health and Human Services, is reaching out to all county residents to provide tips and advice for coping with the area’s coldest prolonged weather conditions since 1996.

With temperatures expected to drop into single digits tonight and remain below freezing through Friday - with wind chill factors considerably lower - residents need to be aware that heat can leave the body much more rapidly and lead to serious health problems. As the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services points out, extreme cold is a dangerous situation that can bring on health emergencies in susceptible people, such as those without shelter or who are stranded, or who live in a home that is poorly insulated or without heat.

“We want to inform all Bucks Countians of options to protect themselves, their families and their pets from the bitter winter conditions,” Commissioner Chairman Charles H. Martin said. “By preparing your home and car for winter emergencies and looking out for neighbors, you can help ensure safety for all.”

Anyone with an urgent need for assistance should call the Bucks County Homeless Hotline at 1-800-810-4434.

Tips for seniors:

When the mercury dips, senior citizens are particularly vulnerable. The Bucks County Area Agency on Aging (AAA) advises older adults to use caution during extreme cold weather conditions, and would like to alert seniors and their families about a number of measures that can be taken:

  • General safety precautions include keeping a three-day supply of food and bottled water, and to make sure your heat source and smoke alarms are in good running order. It is also a good idea to have a plentiful supply of any medications you take;
  • The public can help decrease the risk to seniors by checking on their older relatives, neighbors and friends. Persons who live alone may be especially at risk. A face-to-face visit is ideal, but if you cannot visit, a telephone call will help;
  • The AAA offers a variety of programs to help older adults remain independent at home. These services may be available for those who qualify.

The AAA also has applications for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) that may provide assistance with heating bills for low-income persons, which are also available to non-seniors. For more information about senior programs, contact the Bucks County Area Agency on Aging at 215-348-0510, and ask for the Information and Referral Department.

Additionally, the Bucks County Opportunity Council offers a toll free number, 1-866-375-3280, to provide information about weatherization and other assistance programs.

Tips for parents of infants:

The Health Department advises that infants less than one year old should never sleep in a cold room because (1) infants lose body heat more easily than adults; and (2) unlike adults, infants can’t make enough body heat by shivering. Provide warm clothing for infants and try to maintain a warm indoor temperature. If the temperature cannot be maintained, make temporary arrangements to stay elsewhere. In an emergency, you can keep an infant warm using your own body heat. If you must sleep, take precautions to prevent rolling on the baby. Pillows and other soft bedding can also present a risk of smothering; remove them from the area near the baby.

Outdoor extreme cold weather safety for adults and children involves wearing a hat, scarf or knit mask to cover face or mouth, mittens (which are warmer than gloves), water-resistant coat and boots, and several layers of loose-fitting clothing. Also, remember that shivering is an important sign that the body is losing heat. Persistent shivering is a signal to return indoors.

Special tips for keeping your car running during extreme cold weather include:

Having radiator system and antifreeze levels properly serviced.

  • Keeping blankets and a flashlight in the car at all times.
  • Keeping gas tank near full, to help avoid ice in tank and fuel lines.

Tips for the home:

  • The Bucks County Fire Marshal urges caution when using space heaters, fire places, or wood stoves. Ensure proper ventilation. Never place space heater within three feet of anything flammable/combustible. Make sure smoke detectors are operable, and fire extinguishers are available.

Pet owners should take precautions to ensure their pets are not left outdoors, and water is always available. Cats are known to sleep under the hoods of cars, so banging on your hood before you start your car can save a feline’s life. Brush your dog’s coat and paws once you return from a walk – salt and things like antifreeze can be harmful.

Recognizing hypothermia: The Bucks County Health Department notes that victims of hypothermia are often the elderly, especially those with inadequate food, clothing or heating; babies sleeping in cold bedrooms; and those who remain outdoors for long periods, such as hikers, hunters, the homeless. Warning signs include:

Adults: Shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, drowsiness.

Infants: Bright red, cold skin, very low energy.

The Health Department advises anyone who notices these symptoms on someone to call 911 immediately.