Winds are expected to be strong out of the northwest leading to dangerously cold wind chill values through the period. Be prepared for an extended period of cold weather.
With the coldest weather of the season forecast to reach us by Thursday and last for several days, the Bradford County Department of Public Safety wants to insure everyone is prepared and ready. If you must go out, keep every part of exposed skin covered and dress in layers. Check on your neighbors, especially the orderly, to make sure they are okay. When using open flame heaters or fireplaces make sure you have a working carbon monoxide monitor and smoke alarm. Take care if the power goes out and you are using candles—make sure they are away from any flammable material and never leave them unattended. Flash lights or lanterns are a much better choice for light. Never bring a gas grill inside to cook. Don’t forget your pets; they can get frostbite too. Bring them inside if possible. If they have to be outside, make sure they have adequate shelter, food, and an unfrozen water supply.
Frostbite happens when the body's survival mechanisms kick in during extremely cold weather. To protect the vital inner organs, the body cuts circulation to your extremities: feet, hands, nose, etc., which eventually freeze. To avoid frostbite, stay inside during severe cold, especially when the wind chill is -50° F or below. If you must go out, try to cover every part of your body: ears, nose, toes and fingers, etc. Mittens are better than gloves. Keep your skin dry. Stay out of the wind when possible. Drink plenty of fluids since hydration increases the blood's volume, which helps prevent frostbite. Avoid caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes. Caffeine constricts blood vessels, preventing warming of your extremities. Alcohol reduces shivering, which helps keep you warm. Cigarettes shut off the blood flow to your hands.