With winter weather putting a chill on many parts of the Southeast and a possibility that severely cold weather will again affect much of South Carolina this evening, the Emergency Preparedness Division is issuing reminders regarding severe winter weather. Travel may become hazardous on slick and icy roads in the Upstate late this evening and early tomorrow, and drivers should use extra care, especially on overpasses and secondary roads. This time of year preparation is the most effective method of combating severe weather. If temperatures drop, South Carolinians unaccustomed to dealing with life-threatening aspects of severe cold should remember to keep exposure to cold weather to a minimum.
Frostbite is harmful and painful.
Hypothermia, or low body temperature, can be lethal, and it is particularly hard on infants and the elderly. When the weather turns cold, don't go outside unless you have to. If you must go out, dress in layers and cover your ears, head and hands. Stock up on heating fuel and prepare emergency heating sources, such as fireplaces, wood stoves and space heaters. Top off the fuel tank in your car, check the antifreeze Freezing temperatures can burst water pipes in homes that lack heat or proper insulation.