|
Winter is Here--- Let's stay Warm, Safe, and Ready for the Challenges Ahead |
|
|
Please share this resource with your colleagues and networks. Visit CDC Emergency Preparedness and Response for more information view the Epic Exchange email in your web browser.
As winter settles in, we’re reminded that while the season brings moments of reflection and togetherness, it also presents challenges—freezing temperatures, snow, icy roads and winter storms to name a few. These conditions can lead to risks like carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, hypothermia and frostbite. By staying informed and prepared, we can prioritize our health and safety, navigate the winter months with confidence and handle whatever comes our way. Together, we can enjoy the season’s beauty while staying safe and ready for what it may bring.
|
|
Sign Up for Alerts
To stay informed before, during and after a disaster you should monitor a number of information sources, including systems such as local emergency services websites, warning sirens, SMS or text alert systems, local and national media outlets and local government sources.
Littleton Area
Dangerously cold temperatures are expected this weekend. People with no where to go should call HAAT Force and Movement 5280, which are the primary overnight shelters for Littleton, Englewood and Sheridan.
Please see below for more information.
|
Colorado State and National Disaster Resources
|
|
Power Down, Safety Up – When the Lights Go Out
Power outages, especially during large-scale winter storms, can last anywhere from a few hours to several weeks, posing serious risks to your health and safety. On average, people experience about four hours of power loss each year. Winter storms can extend this, making outages life-threatening. Prolonged exposure to extreme cold or misuse of alternative heating methods, like generators, can lead to hypothermia, frostbite, CO poisoning and other health risks. Extended outages can also disrupt entire communities and economies, so it’s important to take steps to stay safe.
To stay safe, dress warmly in layers, keep your home insulated and have a backup heating plan, such as extra blankets or a portable space heater. If using a portable space heater, be sure to follow all safety instructions, especially if it runs on fuel or requires a generator. If the power goes out, avoid going outside for long periods and stay in the warmest room in your home. Staying prepared is essential to protecting yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of CO poisoning, hypothermia and frostbite during power disruptions.
Source of information is CDC.
|
Power Outage Tips
Make sure you have:
- Emergency lighting that doesn’t rely on electricity, such as a flashlight, head lamp or battery-powered lantern
- Car charger, power banks and adapters for devices and household appliance such as refrigerators, computers, or phones
- Appliance thermometers for your refrigerator and freezer
- Surge protector strips to prevent damage to appliances and electronics from power surges
- Warm clothes, blankets, sleeping bags and emergency (or space) blankets to keep you warm in cold temperatures
- A generator with at least 20 feet of extension cord for outdoor use and enough fuel to keep it running
- Battery-powered or back-up smoke alarms and CO detectors
Generators can offer relief during power outages, but it’s important to use them safely to prevent CO poisoning and other hazards. Using a generator improperly can significantly increase the risk of exposure to dangerous gasses or fire hazards, so it’s key to take the right precautions. By following these power outage tips, you and your family can stay safe this winter. Read CDC's What to Do to Protect Yourself During a Power Outage webpage.
|
As we focus on safety this winter, it’s important to recognize the hidden dangers of CO poisoning. During colder months, the use of generators, fuel-powered space heaters, and other heating devices increases the risk of CO poisoning. CO is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly, causing hundreds of deaths each year and illness in thousands more. CO is produced by household items like portable generators, charcoal grills, and gas or oil-burning furnaces. Everyone is at risk, but infants, the elderly, and individuals with heart disease, anemia, or breathing problems are especially vulnerable.
CO poisoning symptoms often are described as “flu-like,” and may include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Chest pain
- Confusion
If you breathe in high levels of CO, you could pass out or die. People who are asleep or under the influence of alcohol or drugs may not notice the symptoms in time and could die from CO poisoning.
To keep your home safe, follow these simple tips:
- Install battery-operated or battery-backup CO detectors near every sleeping area
- Always use generators outdoors, at least 20 feet from any windows, doors, and attached garages, including those of neighbors
- Avoid using gas stoves or ovens to heat your home
- Have your heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician each year
- Never run your car or truck inside a garage that is attached to a house, even with the garage door open
|
|
 Freeze Warning: Stay Safe from Hypothermia
As you protect yourself from CO poisoning, it’s also important to stay aware of another winter danger—hypothermia. Hypothermia happens when a person is exposed to very cold temperatures for a long period of time. Like CO poisoning, hypothermia can be life-threatening, so understanding the signs and taking preventive measures is essential to keeping you and your loved ones safe.
While hypothermia is more common in very cold temperatures, it can also occur at temperatures above 40°F if someone becomes chilled from rain, sweat, or being in cold water.
Those most at risk include:
- Babies sleeping in cold rooms
- Older adults lacking food, clothing, or heating
- People who stay outdoors for long periods, such as those experiencing homelessness, hikers, hunters
- People who drink alcohol or use illicit drugs
- People with limited mobility who may struggle to stay warm or seek shelter
Watch for these warning signs of hypothermia:
In Adults
- Shivering
- Exhaustion
- Confusion
- Fumbling hands
- Memory loss
- Slurred speech
- Tiredness
In Babies
- Bright red, cold skin
- Very low energy
If you notice any of the above signs, check the person’s temperature. If it’s below 95°F, get medical help immediately! If help is not available right away, try to warm the person up.
Frostbite is a serious condition that occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze due to prolonged exposure to extremely cold temperatures. To prevent frostbite, it’s essential to know who is at risk, recognize the signs, and take action if it develops.
Risk Factors
You are more likely to develop frostbite if you:
- Have poor blood circulation
- Are not dressed properly for extremely cold temperatures
What to Look For
Early signs of frostbite include:
- Redness or pain in any exposed skin area
- White or grayish-yellow skin
- Skin that feels firm or waxy
- Numbness
If you notice any of these signs, get out of the cold and protect exposed skin immediately. Severe frostbite can lead to permanent damage, and in extreme cases, may require the affected body part to be removed.
Take Action
If frostbite develops:
- Seek shelter and warmth immediately
- Avoid rubbing the affected area
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible
Cold Stress
Health care professionals may be exposed to winter weather, including cold temperatures while working in COVID-19 necessary drive-through sites and temporary (e.g., tented) stations.
During extremely cold weather, try to stay indoors. If you must go outside, wear several layers of loose-fitting clothing, a warm hat, gloves, a water-resistant coat and boots, and a scarf or knit mask to cover your face and mouth.
By staying prepared, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from the winter hazards of CO poisoning, hypothermia, and frostbite. Stay safe, keep warm, and take action if you notice any signs of these dangers. Together, we can navigate winter’s challenges and keep everyone protected.
U.S. HHS Tip Sheet: Extreme Cold Weather for Alternative Care Sites
- Facility Action Plan for Extreme Cold Weather
- Facility Readiness
- Facility Implementation Plan
 Dangerously cold temperatures are expected this weekend. People with nowhere to go should call HAAT Force and Movement 5280, which are the primary overnight shelters for Littleton, Englewood and Sheridan. HAAT Force will be the main shelter with @Movement_5280 serving as an overflow shelter.
HAAT Force
Located at 4300 S. Lincoln St., Englewood, CO 80113
Hotline: 720-483-7864
Movement 5280
Located at 3190 S Grant St, Englewood, CO 80113
Hotline (call after 2 p.m.): 720-483-7864
Review the Tri-Cities Homelessness Initiative's severe weather shelter page, which provides contact information for overnight shelters and lists of daytime warming shelters.
Visit https://www.tricitieshomeless.com/ and click on "Severe Weather Sheltering" under the "Need Help" tab.
Image above is a flyer reading "Severe Weather Emergency Shelter information. HAAT Force: Voucher-based emergency housing within motel settings. Movement 5280: overflow overnight shelter."
|
|
|
|
|
