Tips for staying safe, warm as the cold temperatures continue

JACKSON, Tenn. — With freezing temperatures this week, here are a few ways you can stay safe and avoid dangers common around this time of year.

Keeps warm as the temperature continues to drop

Keeping warm is key to staying safe in winter weather, you can dress in layers, wear a hat, scarf or knit mask and wear mittens. You should also wear a waterproof coat and boots, and avoid traveling in poor visibility or on icy roads.

If you must go outside, be sure to limit your exposure time and cover any exposed skin. We spoke with Jackson’s Emergency Response Director Lynn Mooney about the dangers of hypothermia.

“Hypothermia can kill within 3 to 6 minutes depending on the exposure and how cold it is and how much clothing you have on. It’s really important to check on neighbors, friends and make sure an elderly person hasn’t fallen outside. It can take a toll pretty quickly,” Mooney said.

Protect your home from freezing temperatures

Lexington Utilities also shares ways to protect your home from frozen pipes and other winter-related problems.

1. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses – Leaving them stuck can cause the water to freeze and burst your pipes.
2. Cover outdoor water spouts – Use foam covers or other insulating materials to protect them from freezing temperatures.
3. Keep garage doors closed – This helps protect water supply lines located in the garage or along exterior walls.
4. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors – Allow warm air to circulate around plumbing, especially if your sinks are on exterior walls.
5. Let faucets drip – Running a small trickle of water can prevent pipes from freezing.
6. Maintain consistent indoor heat – Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F even when you’re away.

Lexington Utilities says these simple precautions can save you from expensive repairs and water damage.

‘Winterproof’ your car with these tips

Along with layering, make sure you take good care of your car this winter. The Jackson Police Department shares a few tricks to ‘winterize’ your car with items you have around the house.

Shaving cream can be used to de-fog your windscreen. A little vinegar on your windows can de-ice them, and cooking spray can also prevent your car doors from freezing.

Avoid home heating hazards

According to the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance, “Winter is Tennessee’s most dangerous season for home fires. Fire departments report a 66% increase in home fire deaths in winter compared to other seasons.”

Here are some tips to prevent home heating.

“Don’t use space heaters indoors, if you use space heaters indoors, make sure your house is well ventilated. Do not use propane heaters unless rated for indoor use; make sure you pull yourself together before you go outside,” Mooney said.

Heating stations available in the area

The fire department also cooperated First United Methodist Church to provide a warming station in downtown Jackson. The shelter will run from Monday to Wednesday. Cots, blankets and pillows will be provided.

Although the station will be closed during the day, citizens can have a warm place to lay their heads.

“This is from 5pm to morning and beyond ARM will be open all day and beyond RIFA will provide breakfast, lunch and dinner,” said Jason Moore, director of the Madison County Emergency Management Agency.

For more details on heating shelters in West Tennessee or more winter safety tips, click here.

For more news in the Jackson area, click here.