Children, the elderly, and people with disabilities or special medical needs are especially vulnerable during cold weather. Extra precautions should be taken and L.A. County Department of Health and Human Services has some tips.
“There are places where people can go to stay warm, such as shelters or other public facilities. We also want to remind people not to use stoves, barbecues or ovens to heat their homes due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning,” said Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, Los Angeles County Health Officer.
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE COLD
- Dress in layers of warm clothing if you plan to be outdoors.
- Protect head, hands and feet by wearing a hat, scarf, gloves, and socks.
- Check on and help family members, friends, and neighbors with limited mobility and limited access to heat, such as seniors or those who are ill. Check on them frequently.
- If you have pets, bring them indoors and do not leave them outside overnight.
TAKE SHELTER DURING PEAK COLD TIMES:
- If you don’t have a heater in your home, visit indoor public facilities such as shopping malls, libraries or senior centers.
- Beginning December 1, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority has a Winter Shelter Program available for those who need shelter. Locations and transportation information are online or by calling 2-1-1.
PREVENT CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING
Exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide could lead to death within minutes.
- Only use approved heaters, such as electric or natural gas heaters and fireplaces. Never use stoves, barbecues and ovens to heat your room or home, as these appliances can produce a deadly gas known as carbon monoxide that can collect inside your home.
- Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home to reduce the risk of poisoning.
- If you use an outdoor generator at home, place it at least 10 feet away from all doors and windows to avoid exhaust gases entering the home.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause shortness of breath, headaches, muscle and joint pain, and nausea. Those suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning should be taken outside, into fresh air, immediately, and taken to an emergency room for treatment.
Los Angeles County residents and business owners, including people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs may also call 2-1-1 or visit here for emergency preparedness information and other referral services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For the deaf and hard of hearing, call the TDD line at 1-800-660-4026.