Preparing to Stay Warm as Temperatures Continue to Drop

We are just about
to turn the calendars to December, and that means Mother Nature is about to
turn down the thermostat a few more degrees. Fond du Lac County Health Officer
Kim Mueller says it’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop below zero in
Wisconsin, and she reminds people to be smart about how long they spend in that
weather. 

Mueller says “if it’s ten below –
and that usually happens in a season for us – just make sure that you don’t
spend time outside. Don’t let your kids go outside to play when it’s that cold.
But again, if they are going to go outside to play or you’re going to have to
walk to classes in college, make sure you grab a scarf, a knit mask that covers
your face and your mouth, make sure you put that hat on so you don’t lose all
of that heat from your head.”

Mueller also tells us that
dressing warmly helps you avoid potential health risks. 

She says to “be sure that when you
bundle your kids up before school or if they’re going outside to play, that you
properly bundle them up so they can avoid that hypothermia or frostbite.”

And while focusing on keeping yourself and your family warm – Mueller says it’s also a good time of the year to check up on neighbors. 

She encourages people “if we’re going to get some colder temperatures, and you know we will, just make sure we’re checking on our neighbors that maybe don’t have family and friends around quite as much to make sure they have proper heat circulating in their house, that they are properly clothed.”

Mueller also reminds people to make sure to have a to-go kit in the car – including extra blankets, gloves, hats, and more. It’s also recommended to check the tread on your tires to make sure they are adequate for the winter – and to help you not end up in the ditch.