Home News Stay Safe in Cold Weather: Tips to Prevent Hypothermia, Cold-Related Injuries, and Power Outage Preparedness

Stay Safe in Cold Weather: Tips to Prevent Hypothermia, Cold-Related Injuries, and Power Outage Preparedness

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GALVESTON COUNTY, Texas— As temperatures drop, the risk of cold-related health conditions, including hypothermia,
frostbite, and respiratory issues, increases significantly. Additionally, winter storms can result in power outages, leaving
many without essential heating or medical devices. Galveston County Health District urges the public to take proactive
measures to stay warm, healthy, and prepared during the winter season.
Understanding Hypothermia
Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can generate, leading to an abnormally low body temperature.
Early symptoms include shivering, clumsy movements, poor judgment, and pale or blue-tinged skin. If untreated,
hypothermia can result in unconsciousness and death.
The body loses heat through:

  • Evaporation: Wet clothing or sweating intensifies heat loss.
  • Radiation: Most body heat escapes in temperatures below 68°F.
  • Conduction: Direct contact with cold surfaces, like sleeping on the ground, can lead to rapid heat loss.
  • Convection: Wind or cold air moving over the skin accelerates cooling.
    Emergency Power Planning Checklist
    In the event of a power outage, the following steps can ensure safety and access to essential devices:
  • Backup Power for Essential Devices:
    o Contact utility providers about priority reconnection services for life-support devices (e.g.,
    ventilators, dialysis machines).
    o Notify your fire department and local health department about your reliance on life-support
    equipment.
  • Battery-Powered Equipment:
    o Keep extra batteries for hearing aids, motorized wheelchairs, and other devices.
    o Follow a strict recharging schedule and explore alternative charging options, such as converters
    for vehicle outlets.
    o Store a manual wheelchair as a backup if you use a motorized one.
  • Medical and Emergency Plans:
    o Work with healthcare providers to plan emergency treatments if your usual clinic is unavailable.
    o Ventilator users should have a resuscitation bag ready.
  • General Power Preparation:
  • Test generators regularly, store fuel safely, and operate generators outdoors.
  • o Label equipment with your information and keep waterproof copies of instructions and serial
  • numbers.
  • o Train caregivers on using backup systems and ensure all plans are accessible during emergencies.
  • Cold-Weather Safety Tips
  • To avoid hypothermia and other cold-related conditions:
  • Dress in Layers: Wear insulation materials such as wool and thermal fabrics.
  • Keep Extremities Warm: Use gloves, scarves, and thick socks to protect hands and feet.
  • Stay Dry: Change out of wet clothing immediately.
  • Eat and Stay Active: Consuming warm meals and moving around helps maintain body heat.
  • Prepare for Emergencies: Ensure access to heating, blankets, and necessary medical supplies.
    Special Considerations for Vulnerable Populations
    Infants, older adults, individuals with chronic health conditions, and those who consume alcohol are at higher risk of
    hypothermia. People with respiratory conditions, such as asthma or COPD, may experience worsening symptoms in cold
    weather.
  • Wear a scarf or mask to warm the air before it reaches your lungs.
  • Keep an extra supply of medications and equipment like inhalers or oxygen concentrators on hand.
    Keep Your Home Warm and Safe
  • Heat one room during the day to conserve energy.
  • Use thermal curtains, rugs, and draft excluders to retain warmth.
  • Avoid condensation build-up to prevent mold, which can harm lung health.
    Cold-Related Injuries
    Frostnip and frostbite can occur in freezing temperatures, causing numbness, blue skin, or even tissue damage. Always
    cover exposed skin and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure.
    Stay Warm at Night
  • Use warm bedding, electric blankets, and insulated pajamas.
  • Place a hot water bottle under your blankets for extra warmth.
  • Need Help?
    In case of severe weather or emergencies, it’s crucial to ensure that you or your loved ones receive the necessary support.
    If you or someone you know is medically dependent on electricity for medical devices, or if you need special assistance
    during a disaster, register for the STEAR Program (State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry).
  • ow to Register:
  • Visit https://stear.texas.gov/ or call 2-1-1
  • In Texas, dial 2-1-1 or call (877) 541-7905. You can also text your ZIP code to 898211, use the Virtual
    Assistant, chat with 211, search the database, or email 211 for assistance.
  • Provide important medical and mobility information
  • Be sure to update your details if anything changes!

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