NORWALK, Conn. -- The Norwalk Fire Department urges residents to take precautions to keep safe during this especially frigid weather.
Cold weather often results in power outages, frozen pipes, fires and other life-threatening events when people use unsafe alternative heat sources or don't take precautions against the cold.
Residents that need warming assistance can go to the Main and South Norwalk libraries or to the Community Room at the Norwalk Police Department.
The United Way Infoline (2-1-1) also can be called for emergency shelters and resources in Norwalk and across the region.
Exposure to cold can cause life-threatening health conditions. Limit your exposure to the cold temperatures by not going outside unless necessary.
Avoid serious conditions such as frostbite and hypothermia by keeping warm. Wear a hat, hood or scarf, as most heat is lost through the head. Wear layers, as they provide better insulation and warmth. Keep fingertips, ear lobes and noses covered if you go outside. Keep clothing dry; if a layer becomes wet, remove it. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
Prevent frozen pipes. When the weather is very cold outside, open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around water pipes. Let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes.
Keep the thermostat set to a consistent temperature.
Give space heaters space. Keep fixed and portable space heaters at least 3 feet from anything that can burn. Turn off heaters when you leave the room or go to sleep. Do not use stoves and ovens to heat your residence.
Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure alarms and CO detectors are working properly and replace batteries as necessary.
Maintain at least a half tank of gas in your vehicle during the winter season and keep an emergency supply kit in your car with flashlights, hand warmers, blankets and more.
If you lose heat, take measures to trap existing warm air, and safely stay warm until heat returns. Insulate your home as much as possible. Hang blankets over windows and doorways and stay in a well-insulated room while power is out.
If you have a working fireplace, use it for heat and light, but be sure to keep the damper open for ventilation.
Eat. Food provides your body with needed energy to produce its own heat and drinking helps your body avoid dehydration. If the cold persists and your heat is not restored, call family, neighbors, or friends to see if you can stay with them.
For storm and safety updates, visit the Norwalk Fire Department's Facebook page .
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