As you’ve no doubt heard, we’re in for an arctic blast this week. Temperatures will begin to plummet on Wednesday, with wind chills potentially taking us into negative digits.
The Southborough Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) passed along the following information on how to keep yourself safe during the extreme conditions.
| Type | Hazards | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Health | Frostbite will set in quickly on exposed skin; hypothermia; breathing the air could be hazardous internally and there will be additional problems for people with asthma | Cover all exposed skin and limit time out doors; dress in layers; cover your mouth while outside. |
| Toxins | Carbon monoxide – people may try unique methods for heating homes, furnaces may fail from heavy use and also sitting in a warming up car | Do not use alternate methods (i.e. oven) to heat home; monitor your Furnace and call 9-1-1 if unit fails; keep windows open when in a non-moving car. |
| Fire | Space heaters, electric blankets, chimney fires | Use caution with space heaters (do not leave unattended, keep all objects away, do not leave on while you sleep); use caution with electric blankets (do not leave them unattended and do not leave on while you sleep); monitor for chimney fires (or over-heated fireplaces or wood/pellet stoves). Call 9-1-1 if you have or suspect a fire. |
| Home | Frozen pipes | Keep your home warm, possibly leave inside faucets running (slow) – running water will not freeze as quickly. |
SEMA is prepared to provide emergency shelter for those residents who need it. If you lose heat, you’re asked to call 9-1-1 for assistance finding a warm place to stay. And don’t forget to check on your friends and neighbors, especially the elderly and those with children.
For more information on emergency preparedness, visit the Southborough Emergency Management Agency website.
