Precautions in extreme cold

COLUMBUS – With single-digit temperatures and sub-zero wind chill readings sweeping across Ohio, state authorities are urging people to check on older residents to make sure they’re safe and take precautions.


Wind chills were below zero again early Thursday and WBNS 10-TV meteorologist Jeff Booth predicted that they would fall to subzero levels again Sunday morning with snow flurries in the forecast for Saturday.

The Department of Aging says older people are at increased risk from such severe cold, from medication side effects to falling risks.

“Older adults are at increased risk for complications from conditions including snow, ice, bitter cold and more. Factors like age-related changes and medication side effects can intensify the impact,” said interim director Beverley Laubert.

In extreme cold weather, make sure older adults have these precautions in place:
A backup supply of daily medicines and the means to store them properly
Ready access to medical equipment and assistive devices as well as spare batteries and non-powered options.
A safe place to go if it becomes unsafe to stay in the home
Instructions for rescue personnel to help them relocate safely and quickly in an emergency.
-Source: Ohio Dept. of Aging

Laubert urges people to check on family, friends and neighbors to make sure they’re warm enough, and have their needed medications and sufficient food and water. She also says neighbors and relatives should make sure the older resident has access to a telephone that will work without power or landline service

Authorities also say as winter worsens, all Ohioans should have a three-day emergency plan in case they’re stranded in their homes. They warn against leaving space heaters unattended and against using kitchen stoves or other appliances for heat.