Winter Weather Safety

Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas and is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer.” It is produced by burning any fuel such as gas, oil, kerosene, wood or charcoal. If a person becomes exposed to carbon monoxide for too long a period of time, carbon monoxide poisoning can occur, which can be potentially fatal. Although carbon monoxide poisoning may occur in all seasons, power outages from ice storms and the burning of fuels to keep warm may result in an increase in carbon monoxide poisonings. Learn more information about carbon monoxide and how to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Emergency Cold Shelter

A cold weather shelter will be available nightly through March 31 for anyone 18 years of age or older who may need it. This designated Northern Kentucky Emergency Cold Shelter is located at 634 Scott St., Covington, Ky., and will be open from 7 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. The shelter is only open to those people from Northern Kentucky with a valid state ID or have been referred to the shelter by the police or a hospital. For more information, you may contact the shelter at 859.291.4555.

Hand Washing
Proper hand washing is the most effective way to stop the spread of germs, especially during this intense flu season. Learn more information about hand washing and proper hand washing procedure.

Hypothermia
Hypothermia occurs when more heat escapes the body than it can produce. People at high risk are the elderly, babies sleeping in cold rooms, people suffering from chronic illness, people who can’t afford to heat their homes properly and people who stay outdoors in extreme weather for long periods of time. Learn more about hypothermia and how to prevent it.

Frostbite and Frostnip
The cold weather brings the dangers of frostbite and frostnip. Learn more about these conditions and how to prevent them this winter.

Flu
Learn more about the flu, who is at the highest risk and how to avoid it.

Radon
Radon, a colorless, odorless gas, is the second leading cause of lung cancer behind cigarette smoking in the United States. It can seep into houses through basements and crawl spaces. Learn more information about radon and how to test for the harmful gas.

Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a serious disease that often causes sickness or death. It is also a leading complication of the flu. About one out of every 20 people who get pneumonia dies from it. Pneumonia can be spread through the air by an infected person, generally through coughing. Learn more information about pneumonia.

Proper Exercise and Nutrition
With cold temperatures and gloomy weather, it’s easy to get out of your normal exercise routine during the winter. Overeating can also become a problem in the winter season. Learn more about sticking to a proper diet and exercise program this winter.