Extreme Cold Safety Precautions

Citizens urged to take safety precautions in extreme cold temperatures

As all Central Indiana braces for severe cold temperatures in the forecast, the City of Indianapolis would like to remind all citizens to take proper steps to ensure everyone remains safe and healthy in extreme conditions.

"In times like this, citizens need to take care of each other as best they can," said Mayor Greg Ballard. "Extreme cold, snow and ice can be very dangerous and often times fatal. I urge people to take steps to ensure they survive the extremities unharmed, but being educated on those measures is key to staying safe and healthy this winter."

The National Weather Service expects temperatures to begin falling today and be near or below zero by late Thursday evening or Friday morning. Actual air temperature is predicted to be in the single digits and wind chill could potentially be in the -10 to -15 degree range. Officials at the Indianapolis/Marion County Emergency Management Agency will be working with public and private agencies to monitor the situation throughout the week and to address any issues which may arise.

When temperatures drop significantly below normal, staying warm and safe can become a challenge. The greatest threat posed by extreme cold is to the health and welfare of humans and animals. A secondary hazard is to infrastructure, such as water pipes, demands for electricity and the use of unsafe emergency heating devices.

Preparedness is the key to your safety:

* Please use caution and be aware of hazardous driving conditions. Leave early and don't follow the car in front of you too closely, the roads may be slick and icy in spots and it may be difficult to stop quickly.

* Listen to the weather reports, plan accordingly

* Have an emergency supply kit in your vehicle and your home; Food and water (1 gallon/person), flashlights, mobile phone, charger, spare batteries, blanket/sleeping bags, first aid supplies and a battery operated radio are all important components of a disaster kit.

* Ensure that extra blankets and heavy clothes are available for everyone in the family.

* Beware of potential fire & carbon monoxide hazards; if you are planning to use an emergency heating source such as a fireplace, wood stove or space heater.

* Listen to an All Hazards NOAA Weather Radio, or local radio and television stations for the latest updates

* Keep a close eye on those who may need help; the elderly, the young and the disabled may need extra assistance during this time of extreme cold.

These tips and more are available online at www.indygov.org/ema or the National Weather Service website at www.nws.noaa.gov/om/winter.

City road closure information can be obtained online at
www6.indygov.org/dpw/snow/update.htm.
State road conditions can be obtained at
www.in.gov/isp/roadinfo/weather.html
or by calling 800-582-8440.