The County offers resources to help residents prepare for cold and snowy weather

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – In anticipation of extremely cold temperatures and heavy snowfall, Cuyahoga County urges residents to be prepared. Frigid temperatures and heavy snow can quickly become hazardous for people, pets, and property. Residents are advised to adhere to guidelines set forth by their respective municipalities regarding winter weather.

STAY INFORMED: Cuyahoga County urges residents to follow cuyahogacounty.gov/coldweather for comprehensive cold weather resources. In addition, the County’s Office of Emergency Management provides lifesaving tips on preparedness that can help you and your loved ones stay safe during an emergency. We encourage residents to sign up for alerts through the County’s emergency notification system, Ready Notify.

BE AWARE: Residents should be aware of their city’s policy regarding snow removal and parking bans. Municipalities often initiate parking bans to allow room for snow removal and emergency vehicles. Vehicles in violation of active snow bans are subject to ticketing and towing. Severe weather can also disrupt trash and recycling services.

SHELTERS AND WARMING CENTERS: Cuyahoga County recognizes the critical need for safe havens for our vulnerable population. Our Office of Homeless Services works closely with providers through the Continuum of Care to ensure area shelters are open and have available space. Residents are also encouraged to check in on seniors and those living at risk or needing assistance.

Anyone seeking shelter should contact Coordinated Entry at 216-674-7400 or visit the County’s Cold Weather page for information on warming centers.

RESOURCES

• The United Way 2-1-1 help center provides assistance with social service needs
• Cuyahoga County Division of Senior and Adult Services aids our senior population. Call 216-420-6700
• Office of Homeless Services
• HEAP Winter Crisis Program
• FEMA Winter Storm Guide

SAFETY TIPS

Dress warm: If you must go outside, wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellant. Always wear a hat and cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.

Be careful when shoveling: Shoveling snow can be hard work. Remember to take breaks when needed and stop immediately if you feel short of breath or have chest pain.

Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia: Frostbite can result in loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ears, and the tip of the nose. Hypothermia can cause uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, slurred speech, drowsiness, and apparent exhaustion. If symptoms of frostbite or hypothermia are detected, get medical help as soon as possible.

Keep your pets safe: If it is too cold for you to be outside, it is probably too cold for your pet. Be sure to provide shelter for animals who regularly spend time outdoors.

Be prepared for power outages: Have food, prescriptions, and supplies on hand before an outage occurs. Use flashlights instead of candles when able. Unplug electronics to avoid power surges when power is restored.

Use extra caution on the road: Slow down and be aware of your surroundings. Allow extra time for travel. Watch for road closures and ALWAYS move over for emergency vehicles.

Stay warm safely: Be careful when utilizing space heaters. Do not use space heaters with an extension cord and unplug them when not in use. Never heat your home with a grill, stove, or gas heater.

Call 9-1-1 for emergencies. Call your city’s non-emergency line for non-life-threatening events. Please remember that 9-1-1 should be used solely for life-threatening emergencies or crimes in progress. It is important to refrain from calling 9-1-1 for non-emergency situations such as vehicles stuck in the snow, power outages, or unplowed streets. Exceptions include scenarios such as a vehicle stuck in the snow that is on fire, or an arcing or downed power line.