01/21/2024
As severe winter weather arrives across Oregon, it’s important to know the dangers of frigid temperatures, as well as accidental carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and how to prevent it.
Cold weather puts an extra strain on the heart. If you have heart disease or high blood pressure, follow your health care provider’s advice about shoveling snow or performing other hard work in the cold. If you have asthma, breathing in cold, dry air can trigger an asthma attack. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent asthma attacks when outside in winter weather, and remember to follow your Asthma Action Plan. Dress warmly and know to protect yourself from frigid temperatures. Frigid temperatures can cause hypothermia and frostbite.
Search for a warm shelter near you using this 211 search tool. You may also call 211 or 1-866-698-6155 or TTY: dial 711 and call 1-866-698-6155, 24/7. You can also text your ZIP code to 898211 or email [email protected], Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (Language interpreters available by phone; text and email in Spanish and English).
Accidental carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning kills at least 420 people in the United States each year and sends more than 100,000 to the emergency room. Winter storms often lead people to seek alternative heat sources and fuels. Some of these are sources of carbon monoxide. OHA has resources to help you learn more about how to prevent, recognize and respond to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Common signs of CO poisoning include: headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, confusion. If anyone shows these signs and may have CO exposure, immediately go outside for fresh air. Also, call 911 or the Oregon Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.
Message from Oregon Health Authority. You can subscribe here https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/ORHA/signup/37679.