The days are shorter; temperatures are falling Last winter was a brutal one for many areas of the country. When winter temperatures drop significantly below normal — whether it's from a cold spell or a long-term power outage — staying warm and safe may become a challenge. Here are some guidelines that may help to prevent injury, illness or death: Carbon Monoxide Safety — When used indoors, many alternative heating sources can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Before using alternative sources consider the following suggestions: Don’t use a generator or gas- or charcoal-burning devices such as grills or camp stoves. Don't try to heat your house with a gas oven. Don’t run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the garage door open. Don’t burn items in a stove or fireplace that isn't properly vented. Don’t place a portable heater within reach of children, pets or drapes. Stay alert, act quickly Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home and be sure to replace batteries as required. If the detector sounds, leave your home immediately and dial 911. If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning or are experiencing symptoms, call 911 for immediate medical attention. Early symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. Carbon monoxide poisoning is treatable if treated early. Hypothermia — Hypothermia occurs when the body’s temperature drops below a level necessary to maintain normal metabolic and other bodily functions. In severe cases or when the body is not warmed properly, death can result. To help prevent hypothermia: Wear appropriate clothing including hats, coats, scarves and gloves. Avoid consuming alcohol as it can speed up the loss of body heat. Stay as dry as possible. Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, altered speech pattern, abnormally slow rate of breathing, cold pale skin and lethargy. Seek medical attention or call 911 immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. Food safety — Refrigerated foods should be safe as long as power is out for no more than four hours. Keep an appliance thermometer in the freezer and when your power comes back on check the temperature. If it reads 41 degrees Fahrenheit or below, the food is safe and may be refrozen. An ounce of prevention Preventive action may be your best defense in dealing with extreme cold-weather conditions. Prepare your home in advance and observe safety precautions — potentially this will help to reduce the risk of weather-related health problems. And call me so you can be sure you have the insurance you want for your home. In Arizona call Marianne Hobbs Insurance Agency: 602.547.1970