SPOKANE, Wash — Temperatures are dropping low this weekend and the Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) is telling people to stay safe with the arctic blast.
According to SRHD, exposure to cold temperatures can cause serious or life-threatening health problems. The low temperatures can lead to health emergencies for vulnerable people, including elderly, unsheltered people or people who live in a house without heat.
For a list of warming shelters, check the Shelter Me Spokane website to check available bed space in the city of Spokane. In Coeur d'Alene, the St. Vincent de Paul North Idaho warming shelter will be open for anyone needing help.
"When the weather is extremely cold, and especially if there is additional wind chill, try to stay indoors," said Dr. Francisco Velázquez, Spokane County health officer for SRHD. “To avoid hypothermia and frostbite, make any trips outside as brief as possible, and remember that by preparing for winter emergencies, the risks of weather-related health problems can be reduced.”
Here are some ways to stay safe:
- Stock up on emergency supplies for food, safety and heating.
- Be aware of signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
- If outside, get out of the wind and stay dry.
- Do not drive unless needed.
- Wear several layers of loose, lightweight clothing instead of one layer of heavy clothing
- Do not use a gas oven to warm up the house. It could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
For more ways to stay safe in the cold, click here.
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