Winter weather: Be prepared if it comes
It’s been a tough few weeks, weatherwise, for Franklin County residents. The arctic blasts that have settled into the area the past two weeks left us shivering and shaking, while closing schools, businesses, and most government offices.
The forecasts for the next two weeks give hopes for improvement with daytime temperatures in the 40s and 50s and overnight lows in the mid- to high 20s.
Russellville Electric Board General Manager Derrick Moore hit the nail on the head last week when he pointed out winter weather creates challenges for a region not accustomed to prolonged cold conditions.
“We’re not used to it,” Moore said. “We don’t really have a lot of cold weather, so people are just not used to it and trying to stay prepared.”
That said, Moore was quick to add that preparation and efficiency inside the home can make a difference in staying warm and managing winter power use.
For instance, he suggested residents set their thermostats for 67 or 68 and avoid the tendency to bump that temperature up and down constantly. “That keeps your heat strip running all the time trying to catch up with itself,” he explained, which is not good for your heating unit.
He also suggested residents take maximum advantage of natural daytime heat sources. This week, for instance, with daytime temps pushing into the 50s and sunny skies expected most days, residents can open window coverings on the side of their house facing the sun and let sunlight help keep the house warm.
Moore also recommended residents who have ceiling fans turn them on reverse to better circulate the heat, which rises.
Hopefully the worst of the winter days are past us, but we should be prepared just in case. Some basic tips to keep in mind from now until spring arrives:
• Be weather aware. Watch the forecasts for any change. Anticipate what you will need, such as food and medications, minimizing your trips outside or vehicle travel when bitter cold or deteriorating road conditions. Allow extra time for carefully driving or walking on ice, even walking on a sidewalk, parking lot or driveway. And fill your vehicle’s gas tank.
• Limit the amount of time you spend outside. If you need to go outside, wear multiple layers of warm clothing, a hat, and gloves, and stay dry. Cover as much exposed skin as possible. Your ears, nose, fingers and toes lose heat the fastest, making you vulnerable to frostbite or hypothermia. Keep your cellphone handy, and, if necessary, a portable charger.
• Indoor safety also is important. Many people use space heaters or other devices to provide extra warmth in extreme conditions. Heaters need to be in good condition and ventilated well. They should only be used in areas where they are not at risk of falling over and no flammable materials are nearby.
• For those who work outside, it will be important to take breaks and watch out for signs of danger. The signs of frostbite include pale fingers, toes and spots on the face. Exposed skin also can be numb.
• Outdoor animals or livestock require appropriate shelter, and it should be dry and mostly out of the wind. Remember, wind chill affects animals, too. Provide adequate shelter, food and water for animals that stay outside. Check occasionally to ensure water is not frozen.
• Be a good neighbor. Stay in contact with isolated neighbors, family, and friends. People who live alone, the elderly and those with health issues can become chilled quickly. They may need groceries delivered.
