The PA Department of Health and the State Fire Commissioner have released a joint announcement saying that people should stay safe in the cold conditions, and the Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said that staying safe and warm should be top priority if you have to go out during the winter season. This includes learning the symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia, as both could be fatal.
Hypothermia signs include an unusual drop in body temperature, shivering, confusion, slurred speech, drowsiness and memory loss. Frostbite causes a loss in color and feeling in extremities like the nose, ears, fingers and toes, and could lead to permanent damage or even amputation. The CDC says that people should wear loose, light layers and make sure you stay dry.
Residents are also encouraged to keep warm inside the home, and be careful if you use space heaters as if they are not used properly, they might cause a fire. The State Fire Commissioner also recommends having the chimney inspected at least once a year, have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment or other heating devices, and never use the oven to directly heat the home. They also recommend checking or installing Carbon Monoxide Alarms.
