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Winter Storms & Extreme Cold

Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion.  They can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high winds. Warming Centers

IF YOU ARE UNDER A WINTER STORM WARNING

  • FIND SHELTER RIGHT AWAY. 
  • Stay off the roads.
  • Clear exhaust vents.
  • Stay indoors and have warm clothes ready.
  • Bring your pets inside.
  • Listen for emergency information and alerts.
  • Locate electrical boxes and water shut off.
  • Prepare for power outages.
  • Use generators outside only.
  • Look for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.
  • Check on neighbors.Winter weather

Plan Ahead Now Before an Emergency Happens

During extremely cold weather, staying warm and safe can be a challenge. Learn how to prepare for winter storms, prevent cold temperature-related health problems, and protect yourself, your family, and your pets during all stages of a winter storm.

Build a Kit

Stay Informed ReadyErie App

Download the free Ready Erie App to receive notifications, locate emergency shelters, view up-to-date evacuation maps, create a personalized emergency preparedness plan and more.

Listen to commercial radio and television stations for the latest winter weather conditions. These resources may also be helpful.

Health Effects

  • Your personal health and safety can be in danger during extreme winter cold. When temperatures drop and as wind speed increases, heat can leave your body quickly and can lead to serious health problems. Problems such as hypothermia, frostbite, heart disease, and carbon monoxide poisoning can happen.  If you are experiencing symptoms of any of these call 911 Immediately.  

Carbon Monoxide (CO) 

Carbon monoxide, or “CO,” is an odorless, colorless gas that can kill you.  CO is found in fumes produced any time you burn fuel in cars or trucks, small engines, stoves, lanterns, grills, fireplaces, gas ranges, or furnaces. CO can build up indoors and poison people and animals who breathe it.

CO Poisoning SymptomsCarbon Monoxide

CO symptoms are often described as “flu-like.” If you breathe in a lot of CO it can make you pass out or kill you. People who are sleeping or drunk can die from CO poisoning before they have symptoms.  The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Upset stomach
  • Vomiting
  • Chest pain
  • Confusion
More Info About CO and CO Poisoning 

Help for Seniors

Protect Your Pets Dog with snow on face

See links below, keep pets indoors and safe and contact your veterinarian for any questions you have regarding your pets. 

Help for the Homeless

Help for Restaurant Owners

Additional Winter Safety Resources

Changed
02/02/2023 - 12:22 pm