A cold weather alert for the San Fernando, Santa Clarita and Antelope valleys remains in effect today.
Low temperatures forecast by the National Weather Service prompted the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health to issue the alert on Friday, which warns of wind chill temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit through Sunday.
“Children, the elderly and people with disabilities or special needs are especially vulnerable during such cold snaps. Extra precaution should be taken to ensure they don’t get too cold when they are outside,” county Interim Health Officer Dr. Jeffrey Gunzenhauser said.
“There are places where people can go to stay warm, such as shelters or other public facilities. We also want to remind people not to use stoves, barbecues or ovens to heat their homes due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning,” he said.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include shortness of breath, headaches, muscle and joint pain and nausea.
Seniors and others seeking a place to stay warm can take advantage of a Winter Shelter Program, details of which, including locations and transportation information, are available at the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority website at www.lahsa.org/winter_shelter_program.asp.
Information can also be obtained by dialing 211 from any land line or cell phone to reach the county information line. A special line for the hearing impaired is available at (800) 660-4026.
Gunzenhauser advised anyone planning to be outdoors to dress in layers of warm clothing and to wear a hat, scarf, gloves and socks to protect extremities.
Residents are also encouraged to check on neighbors, such as seniors and those who are ill or infirm, during the cold snap and to bring pets inside, especially overnight.
