Cold Weather Can Be Hazardous for At-Risk Groups
As winter sets in, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is sounding the alarm on the heightened risks faced by older Texans and those with preexisting health conditions or disabilities. According to FEMA, these individuals are particularly vulnerable to the health impacts of power outages, a common occurrence during winter storms, as they rely on electrically powered medical equipment such as ventilators, oxygen machines, and power wheelchairs.
The warning comes as part of FEMA’s WinterReady campaign, emphasizing the importance of preparedness for all but focusing on the specific needs of vulnerable populations. Based in Denton, FEMA Region 6 covers Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, with a population of over 40 million people. Within this vast region, 13% or just over 5.4 million people have some form of a disability, and 15% of the total population—5.8 million people—are over the age of 65.
Winter storms often bring challenges beyond the cold, including the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning due to power outages, hypothermia, frostbite, and mental health impacts. FEMA’s WinterReady campaign aims to equip individuals, particularly those in vulnerable groups, with the knowledge and resources to navigate these challenges successfully.
General winter preparedness tips are being shared by FEMA, applicable to everyone but with a special focus on those with unique needs. These include writing down emergency contacts, programming them in your phone, or placing them somewhere readily available. Additionally, Texans are urged to stock up on nonperishable foods, maintain an adequate supply of medical prescriptions, and devise alternative power sources.
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FEMA emphasizes the importance of developing a comprehensive winter emergency plan tailored to individual needs. For vulnerable populations, this may involve considerations such as specific care for medical conditions or dietary requirements, mobility assistance, and plans for emergency transportation and communication.
The WinterReady campaign encourages Texans to share information on social media using the hashtag #WinterReady and visit ready.gov/winter-ready for additional resources. The aim is to raise awareness and foster a proactive approach to winter preparedness, ensuring that everyone, especially those most at risk, is well-prepared for the challenges that the season may bring.
As winter weather unfolds, FEMA’s guidance serves as a crucial reminder that preparedness is key to navigating the potential hazards that can arise during colder months. By taking specific actions and asking pertinent questions, individuals, families, and communities can enhance their resilience and minimize the impact of winter-related challenges. As the campaign unfolds, the call to be WinterReady resonates not just as a precaution but as a commitment to the safety and well-being of all Texans, regardless of age or health status.
