Snow likely in Jonas Ridge area

Following the impacts of Hurricane Helene, we understand that this shift in weather poses additional challenges for those who have lost their homes or continue to deal with the storm’s aftermath.

To help our community stay safe and warm, Burke County 911 reminds everyone to follow these critical safety precautions:

Avoid using gas grills for heating: Gas grills are designed for outdoor cooking and can produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide if used indoors. Never use them as a source of indoor heat.

Generator safety: If you need to use a generator, ensure it is placed outdoors in a well-ventilated area, away from windows, doors, and vents. Proper ventilation prevents deadly carbon monoxide from entering your home.

Stay informed: Refer to FEMA’s official safety tips for cold weather and post-storm preparedness to ensure your household remains protected during this period. You can find that information at this LINK.  

Be mindful of wind chill: The wind can accelerate heat loss by whisking away warmth from your body. Hypothermia can set in when body temperature drops below 95 degrees. Dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and seek shelter from the wind when possible.

Recognize signs of hypothermia: Be vigilant for symptoms such as confusion, persistent shivering, difficulty speaking, sleepiness, and stiff muscles. Immediate action is necessary if these signs are present to prevent severe consequences.

Dress appropriately for the cold: To retain body heat, wear layers, a warm hat, gloves, and waterproof boots. For extreme cold, add face protection and more insulating layers.

Stay warm indoors when the power is out:

• Close blinds or curtains to retain heat.
• Close off unused rooms.
• Wear loose, warm clothing and consume food and warm drinks for energy.
• Place towels or rags at door cracks to prevent heat loss.

Winterize your home: Prepare your home by insulating exposed pipes, inspecting your chimney, cleaning out gutters, and ensuring smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functional with backup batteries.

Don’t forget your pets:

• Keep pets indoors whenever possible and provide warm bedding.
• Ensure they have enough food and water to prevent dehydration.
• Limit time outside and clean their paws when they return indoors.

Protect vulnerable populations: Check in on family, friends, and neighbors who may be more at risk, including the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, and the unhoused. Please encourage them to dress warmly, stay indoors, and consume hot food and drinks to maintain body warmth.

Burke County remains committed to supporting our community before, during, and after these challenges. Please contact 911 if you have an emergency or begin to feel signs/symptoms of being exposed to the cold.

For more information on staying warm and safe, visit www.burkenc.org/helene or check out FEMA’s winter weather safety guidelines. To check out the latest forecast visit www.weather.gov/gsp.

— AKC