LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – Lexington Emergency Management officials are warning the community to prepare for dangerously cold temperatures expected this weekend following overnight snow.
“It’s going to get dangerously cold,” said Emily Fay, public information officer for Lexington Emergency Management.
Fay said people should stay inside if possible, but those who must go outside should dress in layers and cover all exposed skin.
“If you have to be outside, dress in a lot of layers, cover every inch of exposed skin, hat, gloves, scarf, something to cover your face with, just because frostbite can happen within minutes when it gets that cold, and if it’s windy, it’s even worse, and it’s faster,” Fay said.
Home preparation recommendations
Officials recommend people prepare their homes by stocking up on firewood for fireplaces and addressing drafts.
“Under the door frames, under windows. But something you can do at home is just take a rolled-up towel or a blanket and just place it up against that edge, and it should help stop some of that draft from coming in,” Fay said. “If you have blinds, go ahead and lower and close those, pull those curtains over. The idea is just to keep the heat in the house and keep you as warm as possible.”
Fay also suggested topping off propane tanks for gas fireplaces if possible.
Some Lexington residents took advantage of Friday’s milder temperatures before the weekend cold arrives. Jesse Rowe enjoyed a walk on the Brighton Trail.
“I don’t mind the cold, but if there’s ice on the path I’ll probably be skipping that day,” Rowe said.
Pet and neighbor safety
Fay emphasized that pets also need protection from the extreme cold.
“Even the husky is going to get cold. I have a Newfoundland at home. She loves the snow, but we do have to make her come in when it gets that negative sub-zero temperature,” Fay said. “It is dangerous for your pets to be outside for long periods of time.”
Tara Kitzman brought her dog Higgan to a dog park on Friday to enjoy the snow before temperatures drop.
“The wind isn’t blowing too hard, so even though it’s chilly today, it’s definitely a lot more bearable than it was yesterday,” Kitzman said.
Officials also urged residents to check on vulnerable neighbors during the cold weather.
“People around you might need a little extra help with winter weather. Might be some of our older folks or people with medical conditions. Maybe families with young children. Just make sure everybody in your area is safe and has the help they need,” Fay said.
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