Record-setting cold temperatures are forecast for the Greater Kansas City area, and area emergency managers are encouraging people to act now to prepare their homes and families.
“The bitter cold temperatures and strong winds forecast for tomorrow can lead to life-threatening wind chills,” said Kyle Burns, emergency manager for the city of Overland Park and co-chair of the Metropolitan Emergency Managers Committee. “This extreme cold can lead to frostbite on exposed skin in a matter of minutes.”
As for any type of emergency, people should have an emergency supply kit on hand, with enough food and water for three days, a battery-powered radio, flashlights and extra batteries. To prepare for extreme cold, the Federal Emergency Management Agency suggests a few more items to your supply kit: rock salt to melt ice on walkways, sand to improve traction, snow shovels, and adequate clothing to keep warm.
Some additional precautions:
• Bring pets indoors.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. In extreme cold, let a trickle of cold water drip from the faucet to help prevent pipes from freezing.
• Avoid traveling by car, but if you must be on the road make sure you have an emergency supply kit in your car. Keep your gas tank as full as possible in case you are stuck on the highway for an extended period of time.
• Dress appropriately for winter weather. Wear loose, lightweight layers of warm clothing, and wear a hat – half of your body’s heat can be lost without it. Mittens will protect your hands better than gloves. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold.
• Stay informed. Listen to local TV and radio stations or follow your city or county government on social media to get updated emergency information.
“It’s also important to check on neighbors who may need assistance or extra support,” said Ron Starbuck, emergency preparedness program for the Wyandotte County Health Department. “Older adults and children can be particularly susceptible to the risks of extreme cold.”
For more information on preparing for severe weather and other types of emergencies, visit www.PrepareMetroKC.org or www.Ready.gov.