Lexington’s Fire Dept. Wants You to Stay Safe in Cold Weather

DEM Blogger

January 12, 2016

With temperatures plummeting the Lexington Fire Department (LFD) wants to remind residents that exposure to the cold can be dangerous for both you and your home. Nonetheless there are some quick and easy things you can do that will protect your home and family this winter.

How to keep yourself safe:

• Wear multiple layers of light-weight, loose-fitting clothing. The outer garments should be tight knit and water repellant.
• Wear a hat/toboggan.
• Wear mittens instead of gloves as they provide better warmth.
• Keep extra blankets in your car in case you get stranded.
• Move pets indoors or to a covered enclosure out of the elements.
• Check on neighbors that may be housebound or have limited mobility.

How to protect your home:

• Keep your home at a constant temperature. While it may cost you a little more in your monthly bill it will reduce the likelihood of your pipes freezing.
• Never use a stove to heat your home.
• Protect your pipes from freezing. Keep your garage door closed and cabinet doors open.
• Always plug your space heater directly into an outlet…never use an extension cord.
• Make sure your space heater is turned off and fireplace is out completely before leaving the room.
• Keep your walk clear of snow and ice to avoid slip and falls.

Keeping these tips in mind now, before the first flakes fall could help keep you safe or save your life, “We see a lot of the same problems year after year and wanted to get the message out early”, said Firefighter Jessica Bowman. She continued, “Sometimes we underestimate the power of cold weather and don’t consider it to be as threatening as other hazards and therefore don’t prepare ourselves or our homes”.

Source: Lexington Fire Department