Weathering the Cold
What is Wind Chill?
The wind chill is the cooling effect due to the combination of temperature and wind. It is expressed as the loss of body heat.
The 5 P’s Of Cold Weather Preparedness
- Protect People
- Protect Plants
- Protect Pets
- Protect Exposed Pipes
- Practice Fire Safety
Cold Weather Terms
- A FREEZE occurs when surface air temperature is below freezing (32ºF) over a widespread area for a significant period of time. A freeze is a term used for the condition when vegetation is injured by these low air temperatures, regardless if frost is deposited.
- FROST is a cover of ice crystals produced by deposition of atmospheric water directly on a surface at or below freezing.
- FREEZE WARNING is issued by the National Weather Service to make agricultural interests and the public aware of anticipated freeze conditions over a large area.
- HARD FREEZE WARNING is issued by the National Weather Service to make agricultural interests and the public aware of anticipated freeze conditions that are of four hour duration or greater, below 28ºF, and over a large area.
What Actions Should You Take To Be Prepared?
- Stay indoors and use safe heating sources.
- Be aware of the fire danger from space heaters and candles, keep such devices away from all flammable materials such as curtains and furniture, and install recommended smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Indoors, do not use charcoal or other fuel-burning devices, such as grills that produce carbon monoxide. Install at least one carbon monoxide detector per floor in your home.
- Outdoors, stay dry and in wind protected areas.
- Wear multiple layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing.
- Drink plenty of nonalcoholic fluids and eat high-caloric foods.