Westchester County Executive Latimer Reminds Residents To Take Precautions For Severe Cold Weather

Press release from the Westchester County Government:

January 11, 2022

Westchester County Executive George Latimer cautions residents to take this week’s freezing temperatures seriously when they leave home, check on their elderly and frail neighbors and heat their homes safely.

Latimer said: “Wintry weather can further isolate those who are homebound and frail, so it is a good idea to be neighborly. Remember also to take precautions to keep yourself and your family warm and safe in these arctic conditions.”

Health Commissioner Sherlita Amler, MD, said: “Before you go out in this extreme cold, dress yourself and your children appropriately in a hat, glove and multiple layers. When driving, keep blankets in your car in case of a breakdown. If you must spend time outdoors, take frequent breaks to warm up inside. Know and recognize the signs of frostbite and hypothermia.”

Hypothermia happens when a person exposed to cold loses heat faster than it can be produced. Warnings signs of hypothermia in adults include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and drowsiness. In infants, look for bright red, cold skin and low energy. If you see any of these signs, take the person’s temperature. If it is below 95°, get medical attention immediately.

Frostbite is an injury that causes a loss of feeling and color and most often affects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, or toes. Frostbite can cause permanent damage. The risk is increased in people with reduced blood circulation and among people who are not dressed properly for extremely cold temperatures.

At the first signs of redness or pain in any skin area, get the person out of the cold or protect any exposed skin. Seek immediate medical care. Signs of frostbite include white or grayish-yellow skin, numbness or skin that feels unusually firm or waxy. Victims are often unaware of frostbite until someone else points it out because the frozen tissues are numb.

To avoid hypothermia and frostbite:

Anyone in need of immediate shelter may contact the Westchester County Department of Social Services at (914) 995-3333 (during business hours) or (914) 995-2099 (after hours and on weekends).

Latimer said the county’s Department of Emergency Services and Health Department offers a broad range of practical advice to help residents prepare for a major winter storm and stay safe when one occurs, including:

DES Commissioner Richard G. Wishnie said, “The tragic and devastating fire in the Bronx that killed 17 people on Sunday was caused by a faulty space heater. It reminds us that the winter season brings an increased fire risk from the use of space heaters, fireplaces and other heat sources. We urge everyone to take the necessary precautions to ensure that any such device is being used properly and safely.”

This press release was produced by the Westchester County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.