Cold weather tips for people, pets

DECATUR, Ga. (AP) -- DeKalb County Animal Services officials say pet owners need to take extra precautions to keep companions safe while cold weather moves through the region - and Hall County Fire Services is out with some safety tips for the pet owners, themselves.

Animal Services Director Xan Rawls says cats and dogs should be kept inside during cold weather. Rawls says despite cats and dogs having fur, they're not resistant to cold weather and can suffer frostbite and hypothermia, too.

Rawls says drivers should also check beneath their cars and tap on their hoods to make sure cats aren't taking shelter on warm surfaces before starting the engine.

Rawls says pet owners should also check paws for cracks or bleeding and wipe dogs' paws and bellies down after walks because they could pick up traces of anti-freeze or de-icer which could be harmful to them.

PEOPLE TIPS

Hall County Fire Services Fire prevention officials encourage residents to take extra precautions during this cold weather and in the aftermath of the ice storm which many people are still without power and their normal heating source.

Many times, people just dont understand the risk involved in using alternative heating methods. Citizens are just trying to keep warm the best way they can, with whatever they have, says Battalion Chief Scott Cagle, Hall County Fire Marshal.

An additional problem during the next few days might be carbon monoxide (CO). Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless and toxic gas. CO gas can come from several sources: gas-fired appliances, charcoal grills, wood-burning furnaces or fireplaces, and motor vehicles. CO poisoning symptoms are similar to flu symptoms. These symptoms include headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea and fatigue. CO poisoning is deadly! Another source of CO, specifically during power outages, is the improper use of generators:

Generators should be operated in well ventilated locations outdoors away from all doors, windows and vent openings.

Never use a generator in an attached garage, even with the door open. Place generators so that exhaust fumes cant enter the home through windows, doors or other openings in the building.

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Cold weather tips for people, pets