Winter Storm Blair has arrived in Greater Cincinnati.
A winter storm warning is in effect from 10 a.m. Sunday to midnight Monday, according to an alert issued by the National Weather Service. The storm could bring between 5 and 10 inches of snow to the region as well as a tenth of an inch of ice.
A number of agencies have encouraged citizens to prepare and now that the storm is here, they have set guidelines for staying safe.
The following are guidelines compiled from the Ohio Emergency Management Agency and the National Weather Service on how to stay safe during a winter storm.
Snow begins to accumulate in Amberley Village during a winter storm on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2024.
More: Cincinnati Zoo closing early due to winter storm. See list of other closures across region
What to do during Winter Storm Blair
Check on neighbors and family: Ensure family and neighbors, especially elderly neighbors, have adequate heating and enough food, water and medicine. Encourage them to stay home.
Be cautious of carbon monoxide danger: When using alternate heating sources, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning increases. Make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Also, know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. These include:
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Drowsiness or unconsciousness.
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms or a carbon monoxide detector’s alarm sounds, the Ohio Emergency Management Agency encourages you to leave your home immediately and call 911.
Keep generators and fuel at least 20 feet from your home: This is essential for preventing carbon monoxide poisoning or other hazards. Use generators outside and at least 20 feet from windows, doors and attached garages.
Bring your pets indoors and out of the cold. Animals need protection from the severe cold, so do not allow your animals to stay outside overnight during extremely cold temperatures.
Protect yourself from frostbite: Limit your time outside. If going outside, bundle up and dress in layers. Try to have as little skin exposed as possible.
Frostbite can occur on exposed skin in less than 10 minutes. Symptoms include a loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in fingers, toes, ear tips and the tip of the nose. If you see signs of frostbite, seek medical care immediately.
Protect yourself and others from hypothermia. Dress babies and children appropriately for the cold. If you notice anyone exhibiting signs of hypothermia, seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms of hypothermia include:
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Sometimes drowsiness in older adults and children.
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In infants, symptoms can include bright red or cold skin and very low energy.
Avoid traveling. But if you must travel, be prepared: Have a winter emergency kit in your vehicle that includes a flashlight, extra batteries, tools, high-energy snacks, bottled water, car charger for cell phone, extra jackets, gloves, hats, blankets, tools and battery jumper cables. Call #677 if you need roadside assistance.
How to save money on heating during the winter storm
Duke Energy released the following tips to save money when temperatures plunge:
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Reduce your thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting. Even a couple of degrees make it easier on your heating system and can help prevent big spikes in your energy bill from the extreme cold.
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Leave drapes or blinds open when the sun is out to allow the rays to warm the house. Close them at night to help insulate your home.
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Set your water heater to 120 degrees or less. Water heating typically uses the second-most amount of energy in your home.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Winter Storm Blair: How to stay safe during the storm in Cincinnati