Oklahoma City Indian Clinic promotes tips to stay safe during winter weather conditions.
OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit clinic providing health and wellness services to American Indians in central Oklahoma, wants you to be prepared for dangerous weather conditions as we head into winter.
Cold weather can bring icy roads, power outages and hypothermia. Thankfully, there are ways to prepare for winter weather.
“Being in cold weather can put you at risk of hypothermia,” said Janice Hixson, OKCIC’s Chief Medical Officer. “Be sure to add layers as the temperature drops and avoid being in the cold for extended periods of time.”
If you need warm clothing for the winter, OKCIC Social Services has a resource list available for those in need. For more information, call (405) 948-4900 ext. 662 or visit www.okcic.com.
Before a winter storm hits, you can prepare by storing emergency supplies in your car and home. An emergency kit for cars should include a cell phone charger, jumper cables, blankets, sand or kitty litter, flares, a tow rope, a snow shovel and brush, a flashlight and water.
For your home emergency kit, you should include a battery powered weather radio, non-perishable food, bottled water, first aid supplies, heating fuel and an emergency heat source. Remember to consider your family’s individual needs. Stock any extra prescription medications, pet food or baby supplies if needed.
If your power goes out, you can stay warm by closing off unneeded rooms, stuffing towels in cracks under doors and closing the blinds and curtains. Wear layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing, and remember to eat and drink.
Winter weather can be hazardous, but preparing in advance can help you stay safe.
About Oklahoma City Indian Clinic
Oklahoma City Indian Clinic was established in 1974 to provide excellent health care and wellness services to American Indians in central Oklahoma. The clinic staff cares for more than 21,000 patients from over 220 federally recognized tribes every year. American Indians can receive a range of services, including medical, dental, pediatrics, prenatal, pharmacy, optometry, physical fitness, nutrition, family programs and behavioral health services. For more information, please call (405) 948-4900 or visit www.okcic.com.