With dangerous winter weather in the forecast, seniors and their families are urged to take several important steps to ensure their safety.

While a storm of this magnitude impacts people of all ages, the harsh conditions can be especially dangerous for seniors, said Jeff Huber, president of Home Instead, Inc. We want to make sure seniors and their loved ones are aware of simple ways they can stay safe and warm throughout the season.

Those over the age of 65 account for nearly half of all hypothermia deaths. As the body ages, the ability to maintain a normal internal body temperature decreases, creating an insensitivity to moderately cold temperatures. Seniors may not realize they are putting themselves at risk until symptoms appear. Symptoms of hypothermia include: shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and drowsiness. If symptoms are present, immediate medical attention is necessary.

The leading reason for hypothermia in the elderly is due to poorly heated homes, which is entirely preventable. Follow these simple tips to ensure a warm household.

Stay warm

Keep the thermostat at 65 degrees, at least. Consistently check it to make sure your home is sufficiently warm. Even as heating costs rise, your safety should be a priority.

Put a carbon monoxide detector near where you sleep.

Ensure that there is adequate insulation, and check and clean the fireplace and furnace. Furnace filters should be replaced monthly.

Minimize drafts by filling old socks with sand and using them in drafty windowsills and door jams. Weather-strip around windows and doors. Keep doors to unused rooms closed and close curtains at night.

Add an extra blanket to the bed and warm the bed in advance with a hot water bottle. Never use an electric blanket it may be difficult to operate the controls if the temperature needs to be adjusted in the night.

Go here to read the rest:
Three steps for seniors to stay safe during storms

Today is Groundhog Day and Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter. With snowfall pounding the Midwest today, the Snow & Ice Management Association (SIMA), the North American trade association representing snow removal professionals has tips for shoveling snow safely.

"Shoveling snow has a number of health risks associated with it, including the most serious one a heart attack," said Martin B. Tirado, CAE, Executive Director, SIMA. "Other more common health risks include dehydration, back injuries, pulled muscles, broken bones and frostbite. But the good news is there are ways to safely shovel snow,"

Here are SIMA's tips for safe snow shoveling:

TIP #1: Stay on top of the snow. No we aren't suggesting that you make snow angels but when there's a heavy snow, the best advice is to stay ahead of the storm. SIMA recommends that to prevent snow and ice from adhering to the sidewalk or street, clear the snow every few inches instead of waiting for the snow to stop falling before you head outdoors.

TIP #2: Wear breathable layers. Layering is typical cold winter weather advice. We suggest wearing layers of loose clothing so you can peal a layer off if you get hot. Avoid wearing heavy wools, manmade materials or other materials that dont allow perspiration to evaporate. Better choices are cotton and silk.

TIP #3: Watch your feet. No you aren't on Dancing with the Stars, but nonetheless, you need to pay attention to what's on your feet when heading outdoors to shovel snow. SIMA suggests wearing quality outdoor winter wear such as waterproof boots with good traction. Good traction is critical to ensuring that you don't slip and fall.

TIP #4: Take a few minutes to stretch. Shoveling snow is a workout so you need to stretch to warm up your muscles particularly because you are shoveling snow in the cold weather. Stretching before you start shoveling will help prevent injury and fatigue.

TIP #5: Push don't lift. Sounds like something a high school wrestling coach may say but if you push the snow to the side rather than trying to lift the snow to remove it, you exert less energy thereby placing less stress on your body.

TIP #6: Drink up! Water that is. SIMA recommends taking frequent breaks and staying hydrated. You should drink water as if you were enduring a tough workout at the gym or running five miles.

TIP #7: Don't play in traffic. Sometimes people get so focused on the task at hand they don't pay attention to their surroundings. When shoveling snow near streets, pay attention to the traffic since vehicles may not have good traction in the snow and ice.

See the rest here:
Heart attack, back injuries and frostbite among the risks of snow shoveling

SHENANDOAH A cooperative effort between the Shenandoah Rotary Club and Shenandoah Valley School District will lead to a community walking course around the district campus in the near future called the Rotary Way.

Shenandoah Rotarian and school district Superintendent Stanley G. Rakowsky made the announcement during his report at Wednesdays school board meeting.

Its a true town and gown relationship, Rakowsky said, referring to the school district being an active part of the borough community.

Rakowsky explained the walking course diagram on how the path goes around and through the campus on existing roads and walkways.

The path has an incline, but no steps, he said. There are no infrastructure costs to be expended. These are all areas that we have to keep clear, even in bad weather.

The course is about 1,900 yards, or just more than one mile.

What were planning is a dedication sometime in the spring that will tie in with the Healthy Shenandoah project, Rakowsky said.

The Healthy Shenandoah project is sponsored by Schuylkill Countys VISION, Schuylkill Health, Healthy Schuylkill Communities and Shenandoah Senior Living Community. A free Healthy Shenandoah community expo will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Shenandoah Senior Living Community.

During his superintendents report, Rakowsky told the school board and the public about the walking path.

Rotary has been in the community since 1922. The club has done many good things, the club continues to show its not done yet, Rakowsky said. We talk about the Rotary way of doing things, about service above self for the community, and what better way to show this by calling the path the Rotary Way.

See the original post:
Shenandoah Rotary plans Shenandoah Valley campus walking trail

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ITS no good, the thigh burns set in and I need to take a break. Were half way between the first and second floor of the Eiffel Tower, so I can at least pretend to be taking in the Paris skyline as I catch my breath and wait for what feels like an imminent blackout to subside.

Its our own fault. My boyfriend and I could have taken the lift, but we decided to use the steps the thriftiest option, at five euros.

Paris might be a must-see, but the city of love doesnt come cheap.

That doesnt mean the French capital is out of bounds as a weekend destination, you just have to be savvy if you dont want to be left sobbing into your baguette. Its why we booked our accommodation through Airbnb. Not only is it a cheaper option than a hotel, but taking over someones home for a few nights (while theyre elsewhere) gives you the insiders view to a city.

Our cosy little apartment is on the fourth floor of a beautiful building in the artistic area of Montmartre. Once home to the likes of Renoir, the area has retained its bohemian feel, with quaint cafes and cobbled streets so narrow you can almost shake hands with the family living opposite.

Its also just a two-minute walk from white-domed Sacre-Coeur, the monumental church at the summit of Montmartre.

Climb the steps or take the funicular railway. Either way, the views are incredible. The Parisians might have a reputation for being austere, but even if youre a first-time visitor, theres something comforting about the citys landscape. Perhaps its because the iconic structures seem so familiar.

Take the Arc de Triomphe, the 19th century monument Napoleon commissioned to celebrate his own victory standing proud at the end of the vast Champs Elysees, and the Eiffel Tower, left, of course a symbol of the city.

And you dont need to splash out to visit the famous landmarks. On the advice of some locals, we buy a book of ten Metro tickets for just a few euros. We also walk a lot.

Follow this link:
The Sentinel published Travel feature: Make a date in the capital of romance

CRANBURY Mayor Jay Taylor said Sunday night that the township is gearing up for todays potentially crippling snowstorm by calling in extra police and road crews as well as closing the Cranbury School and municipal offices early.

"Chief (of Police) Ricky Varga and (Schools Superintendent) Susan Genco spoke (Sunday) and decided to close the Cranbury School at 12:30 p.m.," Mayor Taylor said. "We are also closing (municipal) offices early."

Mayor Taylor said he did not know how many extra officers Chief Varga planned to call in for extra duty, but it would be more than the normal three assigned to the day shift.

He also said road crews were prepared and would be out salting and plowing immediately.

The National Weather Service issued a blizzard warning Sunday evening for New Jersey and parts of Pennsylvania, Delaware and New England through Tuesday afternoon as two systems take aim at the Northeast part of the country.

A coastal low is then expected to develop with significantly more moisture setting up a storm that could dump anywhere between 18 to 36 additional inches of snow through Tuesday, according to the forecast.

In addition to the snow, forecasters are warning of windy conditions of around 35 m.p.h. leading to potential blizzard conditions.

According to the agency, blizzard conditions exist when winds of at least 35 m.p.h. cause blowing snow to reduce visibility under a quarter of a mile for at least three hours.

(Township Administrator) Denise Maribello and I have been in constant communication (Sunday)," Mayor Taylor said. "We are ready to hit the ground running."

The township also cancelled Monday nights Township Committee meeting, he said.

Read more from the original source:
CRANBURY: Town school and offices to close before blizzard strikes

winter

Sarah Bourassa TODAY

7 hours ago

With a monster blizzard expected to blanket the Northeast from Philadelphia to northern New England, millions of Americans will be navigating icy roads and sidewalks for days to come. Even heavy snow boots may not keep you upright on frozen walkways and stairs.

There is good news: If you find yourself slipping, remember tuck and roll."

If you feel yourself losing balance, tuck into a ball, make yourself as small as possible and keep your head and face away from the fall, experts say. Don't put out your hands to catch yourself, or you'll risk breaking your arms or wrists. Try to land on the fleshy part of your body rather than your knees or spine.

http://tabletinfographics.com/

Or try this proven way avoid a painful splat on the ice: Walk like a penguin. The waddle keeps your center of gravity over your front leg andwill help keep you upright. Spread your feet out slightly, to increase your center of gravity, and take small steps.

Also, keep your hands out of your pockets while walking that decreases your center of gravity and balance, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. You need your arms for balance.

Slips and falls are the second-leading cause of unintentional deaths, according to theNational Safety Council. And with the latest snow and ice storm affecting as many as 29 million people for the next several days, it's time to be extra careful.

Follow this link:
Stay safe on the ice by walking like this animal

NEW YORK --

Check out the lists below to make sure you are prepared:

How to Prepare for a Winter Storm --Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing. --Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out. ==Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year. --If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55 F. Put Together a Supply Kit --Water-at least a 3-day supply; one gallon per person per day --Food-at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food --Flashlight --Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible) --Extra batteries --First aid kit --Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc.) --Multi-purpose tool --Sanitation and personal hygiene items --Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies) --Cell phone with chargers --Family and emergency contact information --Extra cash --Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers) --Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl) --Tools/supplies for securing your home --Sand, rock salt or non-clumping kitty litter to make walkways and steps less slippery --Warm coats, gloves or mittens, hats, boots and extra blankets and warm clothing for all household members --Ample alternate heating methods such as fireplaces or wood- or coal-burning stoves

Protect Your Pets --If possible, bring your pets inside during cold winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas and make sure they have access to non-frozen drinking water. --If the animals are outside, make sure their access to food and water is not blocked by snow drifts, ice or other obstacles.

The following tips on winter pet safety are provided by the Humane Society of the United States: --If pets cannot come indoors, make sure they are protected by a dry, draft-free enclosure large enough to allow them to sit and lie down, but small enough to hold in the pet's body heat. Raise the floor a few inches off the ground and cover it with cedar shavings or straw. Turn the enclosure away from the wind and cover the doorway with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic. --Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate a pet's paws. Wipe their paws with a damp towel before your pet licks them and irritates their mouth. --Antifreeze is a deadly poison. Wipe up spills and store antifreeze out of reach. Tips for Motorists

--If you must drive a vehicle, monitor weather and traffic reports for the latest road conditions. Use mass transportation whenever possible. --Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible as these roadways will be cleared first. --Drive slowly. Posted speed limits are for ideal weather conditions. Vehicles, including those with 4-wheel drive, take longer to stop on snow and ice than on dry pavement. --If you skid, steer in the direction you want the car to go and straighten the wheel when the car moves in the desired direction. --Keep the name and phone number of at least one local towing service in your car in case you break down or become stuck in the snow. --Try to keep your vehicle's gas tank as full as possible. --If you get stuck on the road stay with your car and contact a towing company. Tips for Pedestrians

--Exercise caution and avoid slippery surfaces; some ice may not be visible. --Wear layers including a hat, gloves and scarf to stay protected from the cold. And, keep clothes and shoes dry. --Keep fingertips, earlobes, and noses covered if you go outside. --Have heightened awareness of cars, particularly when approaching or crossing intersections. Other tips for dealing with the storm:

--For safety's sake, don't touch or approach any downed wire. Assume it is energized and dangerous. Call your utility company immediately. Depending on the situation, you may also want to call your local police to divert traffic until an O&R crew arrives.

--Maintain a distance of at least 50 feet from downed wires and anything they are in contact with including puddles of water and fences. Supervise your children so that they are not in the vicinity and keep pets on a leash.

--If a fallen wire is draped over a car, do not approach the car and make rescue attempts. Remain a safe distance away, and try to keep the occupant of the vehicle calm. If possible, emergency personnel should handle the situation.

View post:
Blizzard survival guide: Tips on how to prepare for the storm

NEW YORK --

Check out the lists below to make sure you are prepared:

How to Prepare for a Winter Storm --Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing. --Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out. ==Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year. --If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55 F. Put Together a Supply Kit --Water-at least a 3-day supply; one gallon per person per day --Food-at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food --Flashlight --Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible) --Extra batteries --First aid kit --Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc.) --Multi-purpose tool --Sanitation and personal hygiene items --Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies) --Cell phone with chargers --Family and emergency contact information --Extra cash --Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers) --Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl) --Tools/supplies for securing your home --Sand, rock salt or non-clumping kitty litter to make walkways and steps less slippery --Warm coats, gloves or mittens, hats, boots and extra blankets and warm clothing for all household members --Ample alternate heating methods such as fireplaces or wood- or coal-burning stoves

Protect Your Pets --If possible, bring your pets inside during cold winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas and make sure they have access to non-frozen drinking water. --If the animals are outside, make sure their access to food and water is not blocked by snow drifts, ice or other obstacles.

The following tips on winter pet safety are provided by the Humane Society of the United States: --If pets cannot come indoors, make sure they are protected by a dry, draft-free enclosure large enough to allow them to sit and lie down, but small enough to hold in the pet's body heat. Raise the floor a few inches off the ground and cover it with cedar shavings or straw. Turn the enclosure away from the wind and cover the doorway with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic. --Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate a pet's paws. Wipe their paws with a damp towel before your pet licks them and irritates their mouth. --Antifreeze is a deadly poison. Wipe up spills and store antifreeze out of reach. Tips for Motorists

--If you must drive a vehicle, monitor weather and traffic reports for the latest road conditions. Use mass transportation whenever possible. --Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible as these roadways will be cleared first. --Drive slowly. Posted speed limits are for ideal weather conditions. Vehicles, including those with 4-wheel drive, take longer to stop on snow and ice than on dry pavement. --If you skid, steer in the direction you want the car to go and straighten the wheel when the car moves in the desired direction. --Keep the name and phone number of at least one local towing service in your car in case you break down or become stuck in the snow. --Try to keep your vehicle's gas tank as full as possible. --If you get stuck on the road stay with your car and contact a towing company. Tips for Pedestrians

--Exercise caution and avoid slippery surfaces; some ice may not be visible. --Wear layers including a hat, gloves and scarf to stay protected from the cold. And, keep clothes and shoes dry. --Keep fingertips, earlobes, and noses covered if you go outside. --Have heightened awareness of cars, particularly when approaching or crossing intersections. Other tips for dealing with the storm:

--For safety's sake, don't touch or approach any downed wire. Assume it is energized and dangerous. Call your utility company immediately. Depending on the situation, you may also want to call your local police to divert traffic until an O&R crew arrives.

--Maintain a distance of at least 50 feet from downed wires and anything they are in contact with including puddles of water and fences. Supervise your children so that they are not in the vicinity and keep pets on a leash.

--If a fallen wire is draped over a car, do not approach the car and make rescue attempts. Remain a safe distance away, and try to keep the occupant of the vehicle calm. If possible, emergency personnel should handle the situation.

Read this article:
Blizzard survival guide: Everything you need to know to prepare for the storm

NEW YORK --

Check out the lists below to make sure you are prepared:

How to Prepare for a Winter Storm --Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing. --Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out. ==Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year. --If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55 F. Put Together a Supply Kit --Water-at least a 3-day supply; one gallon per person per day --Food-at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food --Flashlight --Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible) --Extra batteries --First aid kit --Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc.) --Multi-purpose tool --Sanitation and personal hygiene items --Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies) --Cell phone with chargers --Family and emergency contact information --Extra cash --Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers) --Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl) --Tools/supplies for securing your home --Sand, rock salt or non-clumping kitty litter to make walkways and steps less slippery --Warm coats, gloves or mittens, hats, boots and extra blankets and warm clothing for all household members --Ample alternate heating methods such as fireplaces or wood- or coal-burning stoves

Protect Your Pets --If possible, bring your pets inside during cold winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas and make sure they have access to non-frozen drinking water. --If the animals are outside, make sure their access to food and water is not blocked by snow drifts, ice or other obstacles.

The following tips on winter pet safety are provided by the Humane Society of the United States: --If pets cannot come indoors, make sure they are protected by a dry, draft-free enclosure large enough to allow them to sit and lie down, but small enough to hold in the pet's body heat. Raise the floor a few inches off the ground and cover it with cedar shavings or straw. Turn the enclosure away from the wind and cover the doorway with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic. --Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate a pet's paws. Wipe their paws with a damp towel before your pet licks them and irritates their mouth. --Antifreeze is a deadly poison. Wipe up spills and store antifreeze out of reach. Tips for Motorists

--If you must drive a vehicle, monitor weather and traffic reports for the latest road conditions. Use mass transportation whenever possible. --Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible as these roadways will be cleared first. --Drive slowly. Posted speed limits are for ideal weather conditions. Vehicles, including those with 4-wheel drive, take longer to stop on snow and ice than on dry pavement. --If you skid, steer in the direction you want the car to go and straighten the wheel when the car moves in the desired direction. --Keep the name and phone number of at least one local towing service in your car in case you break down or become stuck in the snow. --Try to keep your vehicle's gas tank as full as possible. --If you get stuck on the road stay with your car and contact a towing company. Tips for Pedestrians

--Exercise caution and avoid slippery surfaces; some ice may not be visible. --Wear layers including a hat, gloves and scarf to stay protected from the cold. And, keep clothes and shoes dry. --Keep fingertips, earlobes, and noses covered if you go outside. --Have heightened awareness of cars, particularly when approaching or crossing intersections. Other tips for dealing with the storm:

--For safety's sake, don't touch or approach any downed wire. Assume it is energized and dangerous. Call your utility company immediately. Depending on the situation, you may also want to call your local police to divert traffic until an O&R crew arrives.

--Maintain a distance of at least 50 feet from downed wires and anything they are in contact with including puddles of water and fences. Supervise your children so that they are not in the vicinity and keep pets on a leash.

--If a fallen wire is draped over a car, do not approach the car and make rescue attempts. Remain a safe distance away, and try to keep the occupant of the vehicle calm. If possible, emergency personnel should handle the situation.

Go here to see the original:
Tips on how to prepare for the storm

With dangerous winter weather in the forecast, seniors and their families are urged to take several important steps to ensure their safety.

While a storm of this magnitude impacts people of all ages, the harsh conditions can be especially dangerous for seniors, said Jeff Huber, president of Home Instead, Inc. We want to make sure seniors and their loved ones are aware of simple ways they can stay safe and warm throughout the season.

Those over the age of 65 account for nearly half of all hypothermia deaths. As the body ages, the ability to maintain a normal internal body temperature decreases, creating an insensitivity to moderately cold temperatures. Seniors may not realize they are putting themselves at risk until symptoms appear. Symptoms of hypothermia include: shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and drowsiness. If symptoms are present, immediate medical attention is necessary.

The leading reason for hypothermia in the elderly is due to poorly heated homes, which is entirely preventable. Follow these simple tips to ensure a warm household.

Stay warm

Keep the thermostat at 65 degrees, at least. Consistently check it to make sure your home is sufficiently warm. Even as heating costs rise, your safety should be a priority. Put a carbon monoxide detector near where you sleep. Ensure that there is adequate insulation, and check and clean the fireplace and furnace. Furnace filters should be replaced monthly. Minimize drafts by filling old socks with sand and using them in drafty windowsills and door jams. Weather-strip around windows and doors. Keep doors to unused rooms closed and close curtains at night. Add an extra blanket to the bed and warm the bed in advance with a hot water bottle. Never use an electric blanket it may be difficult to operate the controls if the temperature needs to be adjusted in the night. Dress in layers of loose fitting clothing. If you go outside, make sure your head is covered.

Every year, more than 1.6 million seniors end up in the emergency room because of a fall. With icy conditions, the chances of falling are even greater.

Preventing falls

Take a couple minutes per day and stretch your limbs in order to loosen muscles. Stay inside make arrangements for someone to shovel and salt driveways and walkways. Professional caregivers can assist with to-do items, such as bringing in the mail and/or picking up groceries. Wear shoes or boots with a non-skid sole. Have handrails installed on outside walls for frequently used walkways. If you use a cane or walker, check the rubber tips to make sure they are not worn smooth.

Winter weather can take a toll on everyone, especially seniors. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can occur in seniors and impact their emotional health. Some signs to watch for with SAD include: a loss of energy, an increased appetite and an enhanced feeling of lethargy and tiredness. If symptoms are present, talk to your medical provider about treatment options.

Continued here:
Three steps for Weston seniors to stay safe during storms