Be #FDNYSmart During Winter Storms
January 22, 2016
In preparation for inclement weather in New York City, everyone is encouraged to follow some basic preparedness tips to stay safe and help emergency personnel assist those most in need of their services. With heavy snowfall and possible coastal flooding expected, it is important to prepare both for several days inside and for the possibility of an evacuation.Only call 911 for emergencies. For all non-emergencies, call 311.
Before you begin preparing for the cold weather, test your home's smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms to ensure they are working, and review the household fire safety plan with anyone who will be staying with you. If you do not have heat or hot water in your home then contact the building owner manager or superintendent first and if necessary call 311.
Learn More About Pre-Storm Preps at FDNYSmart.org
Stay warm during the storm and check on elderly family members and neighbors, or call them to make sure they are safe. If you lose power, use your emergency supply kit flashlight. But if you light candles be sure that combustible items, curtains, blinds and bedding are at least four feet away. Do not leave your candles unattended and never allow children to light them alone. Always treat burns immediately under cold running water and seek medical attention. Never apply ice or creams to burns without first consulting a doctor. If you lose heat in your home during the storm, work to trap warm air, and safely stay warm.
Learn More About Stay Safe During Winter Storms
Two important winter illnesses to know about are Hypothermia and Frostbite. Having a dangerously low body temperature is called hypothermia, and it can be hard to think clearly and to move. If your skin pales or turns red and feels very cold then it may be an early sign of frostnip – the start of frostbite; as it progresses, the affected area can be prickly and numb, then later, when the skin warms, it can be painful and tingly.
Learn More About Cold Weather Illnesses and Injuries
Once it stops snowing, homeowners should shovel a path to hydrants and make sure that they are visible so that the FDNY can find them easily in case of emergency. Any delay in locating hydrants and getting water on a fire will endanger the lives of both firefighters and civilians, if you feel that you are unable to do so then ask a friend or neighbor to help shovel – you will be keeping your neighborhood safe.
Since storms are often unpredictable, check on the weather regularly and follow the instructions of local authorities.