With a blast of arctic temperatures moving in!
Beginning Thursday, Governor Ned Lamont activated the state's severe cold weather protocol. It went into effect at 3 p.m. on Thursday and will remain in effect until 12 p.m. on Tuesday, according to the governor's office. Wind chills are expected to be near zero Friday morning. “This kind of arctic air can be dangerous, and spending long periods of time outdoors in these conditions is not only harmful, but it can also be fatal," Gov. Lamont said in a statement.
Anyone in need of a shelter or a warming center can call 211 or visit 211ct.org to find available locations. Transportation is available if needed.
At Home:
Prevent frozen pipes: Turn off the water supply to exterior faucets and drain the lines.During deep cold spells, open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.
Check heating systems: Have your furnace and or boiler service company’s number on hand. Have the system professionally inspected and change the air filters. If using a fireplace or woodstove, make sure a CO detector and smoke detector in the room and sure they are operational. Allow ashes to cool for at least 12-24 hours, or until they are completely cold, before disposing of them outside. Place your wood ashes in a covered metal container, away from any combustible materials
Prepare supplies: Check batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure you have non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries on hand in case of a power outage.
For Your Vehicle:
Pack an emergency kit: Keep a winter survival kit in your car with essentials like a flashlight, blankets, extra warm clothes, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, a small shovel, and sand or kitty litter for traction.
Personal & Pet Safety:
Dress in layers: When outdoors, wear multiple layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing, a hat, and mittens (which are warmer than gloves). Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs from extremely cold air.
Minimize outdoor activity: Limit time outside during extreme cold, especially if wind chills are low.
Bring pets inside: If it's too cold for you to be outside, it's too cold for your pets.
Check on others: Be a good neighbor and check on elderly family, friends, and neighbors who may need assistance.
Anyone in need of a shelter or a warming center can call 211 or visit 211ct.org to find available locations. Transportation is available if needed.
Town of Bethany, Office of Emergency Management