Howard County is under a cold weather advisory from 7 p.m. Thursday to 11 a.m. Friday as wind chills are forecast to reach negative 9 degrees Fahrenheit.
What’s Happening: The National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington issued the advisory Thursday. The frigid wind chills could cause hypothermia without proper precautions.
What’s Important: Frostbite and hypothermia can occur in less than 30 minutes in these conditions. The Howard County Office of Emergency Management is asking residents to check on older family, friends and neighbors.
Safety Rules: The Howard County Health Department recommends covering your head, which releases up to 50 percent of body heat. Wear several layers of lightweight, loose-fitting clothing—air between layers provides insulation. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect lungs from direct cold air. Mittens keep hands warmer than gloves because fingers stay in close contact.
Fire Hazards: Space heaters must plug directly into wall outlets, never extension cords or surge protectors, and sit at least three feet from anything that can burn. Never use generators, camp stoves or grills indoors, including in garages with doors open. Carbon monoxide from these devices is colorless, odorless and deadly. Place generators outdoors in well-ventilated locations at least 20 feet from homes or businesses.
Animal Requirements: Howard County law requires animals housed outdoors to have shelter, bedding and unfrozen water at all times. Police and Animal Control are urging residents to keep pets indoors when possible. Clean snow and salt from pets’ paws, legs and stomach.
Shelter Access: Grassroots Crisis Intervention operates a hotline at 410-531-6677 for people needing shelter. The Crisis Center is at 8990 Old Annapolis Road, Suite A in Columbia.
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