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Tips for Seniors to Stay Safe During Winter Storm

Project Independence Winter Safety Tips

North Hempstead's senior program, Project Independence, offers the following important winter safety tips for all Town seniors.  For more information, please call 311.

-  Try and stay indoors during the storm.

-  If you have no heat:

  •  Report outage
  •  If using ALTERNATIVE HEAT from a fireplace, wood stove, space heater, etc.:
    • Use fire safeguards.
    • Properly ventilate.
    • Close off unneeded rooms.
    • Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors.
    • Cover windows at night.

-  If you need to go outside:

  • Walk carefully on snowy, icy, walkways.
  • Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack—a major cause of death in the winter. If you must shovel snow, stretch before going outside.
  • Keep Dry-Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Remove layers to avoid overheating, perspiration, and subsequent chill.
  • Eat and drink. Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat. Keep the body replenished with fluids to prevent dehydration.

If you must drive:

  •  Travel in the day; don’t travel alone; keep others informed of your schedule; stay on main roads and avoid back road shortcuts.
  • Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.

-  Stay Safe and Warm!

Please call 311 or 869-6311 for more information.

Information from National Weather Service http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/brochures/wntrstm.htm and FEMA ready.gov/winter-weather

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