DAYTON — The Dayton Police Department warns the public about the possible dangers of the first winter storm and offers safety tips.
There is a winter storm warning that will remain in effect from Thursday, December 22, to Sunday, December 25.
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The winter storm warning was placed into effect because the weather is expected to consist of “very cold temperatures” and “strong wind,” creating “dangerously cold wind chills Friday and Saturday, lingering into Sunday for parts of the area,” a Dayton Police spokesperson stated.
Wind chills are estimated to be -20 to -30 degrees below zero with gusts of 40 to 50 mph.
Possible impacts on you
Dayton Police expect the possible impacts from snow, ice, and cold temperatures are:
- Illness, injuries, and fatalities due to falls, sledding, car accidents, carbon monoxide poisoning, hypothermia & frostbite
- Increased response time for emergency services
- Impacts on vulnerable populations
- Snow and ice-covered sidewalks, roadways, and bridges making travel hazardous
- Frozen or ruptured water mains causing local flooding and/or loss of water services
- Power outages
- Damaged or collapsed structures
- Car accidents
- Stranded commuters
Dayton Police also warns about driving on Interstate 75 and US-35 in particular because the elevated highways will “accumulate ice more quickly than surface streets,” the spokesperson said.
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Safety Concerns and Tips
Dayton Police offers these safe tips to remains safe during the winter storm:
- Use of open flames and/or cooking equipment (stove, oven, etc.) to heat a residence is very dangerous and not recommended
- Install / Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
- Safe use of space heaters and kerosene heaters (minimum 3 feet clearance surrounding any heaters)
- Use of generators - ensure they are only utilized in well-ventilated locations outside and at least 5 feet away from all openings, with exhaust pointed away from the residence
- Propane and Charcoal Grills should not be utilized indoors for heating or cooking operation