Emergency Preparedness

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Colder weather often yields temperatures that can be dangerous after long periods of exposure, if proper precautions are not taken. Some of the dangers associated with winter weather include hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning and injuries from heat sources.

Frostbite is the freezing and subsequent destruction of body tissue. The areas most likely to freeze are toes, fingers, ears, cheeks and the tip of the nose.

To protect yourself and your family in cold weather follow the below tips:

• Cover your head.
• Wear several layers of lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. The air between layers acts as insulation to keep you warmer
• Wear mittens rather than fingered gloves. The close contact of fingers helps keep your hands warm.
• Wear warm leg coverings and heavy socks, or two pairs of lightweight socks.
• Be alert to other common winter hazards, such as carbon monoxide (CO) and injuries from heat sources. CO is produced by small gasoline engines, stoves, generators, lanterns and gas ranges, or by burning charcoal and wood. This colorless, odorless gas can cause severe illness and death. Visit the Maryland Department of Health webpage for CO poisoning prevention tips.
• Blocked tailpipes during winter can cause deadly carbon monoxide (CO) to build up inside a vehicle within minutes, as the odorless, colorless gas is forced back into the cabin instead of escaping. Always clear snow from the tailpipe and surrounding rear area before starting the engine or when idling. 
• Equip your vehicles with items such as heavy blankets, water, nonperishable food, a flashlight and a snow shovel. More information about cold weather.

If you are shoveling snow, the American Heart Association recommends the following to reduce the increased risk of a heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest:

• If you have known or suspected heart disease or risk factors for heart disease, get someone else to do your snow removal for you!
• If you must shovel the snow, start gradually and pace yourself. Always cover your mouth and nose, wear layered clothing, as well as a hat and gloves.
• Ideally, push or sweep the snow rather than lifting and throwing it, that action involves a little less exertion.
• Be extra careful when the wind is blowing, the wind makes the temperature feel even colder than it is and will increase the effects of the cold on your body.
• Use an automated snow blower rather than shoveling, if possible. While you should still proceed with caution and be mindful of how your body is feeling, research shows that using a snow blower raises the heart rate to around 120, compared to a heart rate of around 170 experienced while shoveling.

The American Heart Association urges everyone to learn the common signs of a heart attack and stroke. If you experience chest pain or pressure, lightheadedness or heart palpitations or irregular heart rhythms, stop the activity immediately. Call 9-1-1 if symptoms don’t subside shortly after you stop shoveling or snow blowing.

Additional Resources about Cold Weather Safety:

• National Weather Service Winter Weather Safety
• Ready.gov Winter Ready
• Maryland Department of Health Extreme Cold Resources
• Cold Weather Animal Safety

Anyone in need of shelter or other assistance should call the Grassroots hotline at 410-531-6677 or visit grassrootscrisis.org.

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How can YOU help in an emergency?
Become a Public Health Hero - Join the Howard County Medical Reserve Corps

The Howard County Medical Reserve Corps (HCMRC) Program is volunteer organization created in July 2002. Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) volunteers can be medical and public health professionals or community members with no healthcare background.
 

Howard County Health Department
Phone: 410-313-6300

Maryland Department of Health (MDH)
Phone: 410-767-6500
After Hours Emergency: 410-795-7365

Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA)
Phone: 410-517-3600

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Phone: 800-232-4636