Folks in South Carolina should keep an eye on the weather and get ready for winter conditions. The National Weather Service says parts of the state could see a mix of rain, sleet, freezing rain, and snow this Friday and Saturday. 

COLD WEATHER SAFETY TIPS 

Stay indoors when possible: 

• Dress in layers of loose-fitting, warm, protective clothing.  

• Stay updated on your local weather by listening to the news on television or the radio. 

• Keep your pets inside. 

• All other animals should be sheltered and supplied with fresh, non-frozen water.  

• Remember to eat regular, nutritious meals. 

• Stay hydrated by drinking water as well as warm broths and juices. Caffeinated drinks and alcohol should be avoided as they cause dehydration. 

If you go outdoors: 

• Again, dress in layered, loose-fitting clothing; add gloves or mittens and a hat. Your outer layer of clothing should be water repellent.  

• Wear a scarf or muffler over your mouth to protect your lungs from the cold air.  

• Avoid spending long periods of time outside as that may increase your chance of developing hypothermia or frostbite. 

• Stay dry while outdoors. If your clothing or any part of your body becomes wet, it is time to go indoors to warm up and change clothes. 

• If you must work outside, avoid overexertion as this can be dangerous in extreme temperatures.  

• Take great care when walking on snowy, icy sidewalks.  

• Avoid walking to your destination; use public transportation or request-a-ride apps if you do not drive.

Winter Safety Resources: 

Red Cross, How to Prepare for Winter Emergencies 

SCEMD, Winter Weather Expected for South Carolina 

HOME HEATING AND FIRE SAFETY

With winter weather on the way, staying warm at home is a top priority—but safety is just as important. Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires, so it’s essential to take precautions. Follow these simple tips to keep your home safe and cozy during frigid temperatures. 

• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, stoves, radiators, heaters, and candles.  

• Always plug space heaters directly into an outlet.  

• Make sure electric cords are not damaged or frayed. If there is damage, do not use! 

• Do not use an oven to heat your home. 

• Have a smoke alarm on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Make sure the batteries are charged! 

• If you are deaf or hard of hearing, use smoke alarms with a vibrating pad, flashing light, or strobe light. These accessories start when your alarm sounds.  

• And it is always a good idea to have heating equipment, like a furnace or chimney, inspected by a professional before cold weather season each year.

Additional Fire Safety Resources: 

Home Fire Safety (FEMA) 

Fire Safety for People with Disabilities (FEMA/U.S. Fire Administration)  

#WinterReady Resources  

Carbon Monoxide Can Kill

Some home heating systems or space heaters may use natural gas or fuel. If fuel or natural gas burning heaters are not vented outside or properly maintained, a deadly gas called carbon monoxide can build up in your home. Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas you can’t see.

• Make sure your natural gas or fuel burning heaters and furnaces are working properly with outside ventilation.
• Cars that use gas can also be a danger. Always check your car’s tailpipe to make sure it’s not blocked by snow or ice. Never run your car in a closed space like a garage, room, or basement, even if you’re trying to stay warm.
• To stay safe, install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home in central spots. These detectors can warn you to get out of your home, before it's too late.
• If your carbon monoxide detector goes off, get outside to fresh air right away. Once you’re safe, call 911 for help. Don’t go back inside until emergency responders say it’s safe.

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