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Protecting Your Home
Even if staying inside from the harsh winter weather, your house should be protected from damage. CC Health recommends that you clear rain gutters, fix any leaks on the roof and cut tree branches that could fall due to high winds. Insulate the pipes to prevent them from bursting due to freezing temperatures. Keep all inside faucets running at a slow drip, and keep heating fuel in ample supply.
Protective Clothing
Should you have to venture outside for any reason, protect your body by dressing for the cold weather. Cover your hands with mittens, you head with a hat and a scarf over your mouth to protect your extremities. Wear several loose fitting layers of clothing. The outer garments should repel water, and be tightly woven to trap heat. Warm jackets are also recommended when staying outside for prolonged periods of time.
Symptoms
Prolonged exposure to freezing outside temperatures can affect a person's physical well-being. Frostbite and hypothermia are two common impairments caused by freezing temperatures. Confusion, dizziness, exhaustion and shivering are all signs of hypothermia. Skin discoloration, extremity numbness and wax-like skin are signs of frostbite. Should you experience any of these symptoms, go to a medical center immediately and seek treatment.
Driving Precautions
If driving your vehicle in freezing temperatures is unavoidable, take several precautions to remain safe. Drive at a decreased speed, and leave plenty of room in between the other vehicles. The Weather Channel recommends at least three times more space than normal. Brake more softly than normal to avoid skidding on ice and slush. Exert extra caution when driving over bridges. Most likely, the road will still contain icy areas and must be driven over carefully.