Libraries to Serve as 'Warming Centers'

Two warming centers for anyone who needs to get in out of the extreme cold have been designated in East Providence by the RI Emergency Management Agency.

The centers:

• Weaver Library; 41 Grove Ave.; Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Riverside Library; 475 Bullocks Point Ave.; Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The centers are among 28 that have been set up across Rhode Island because of colder than normal temperatures and wind chills that are predicted for Rhode Island through the weekend.

RIEMA offers the following tips to stay safe during the extreme cold:

• Dress warmly, and in layers, even if you are just making a short trip to the mailbox. If you fall or a door locks behind you, you could be exposed for a longer period of time than you planned.
• Dress warmly even when you are inside—especially if you do not move a lot.
• The temperature inside your home should be set according to your own activity level, health, and medications. What is an acceptable, fuel-saving temperature for an active family may not be safe for an older person who has difficulty moving or takes certain medications.
• The elderly are especially susceptible to extremely cold temperatures. Check on elderly friends, family, or neighbors frequently.
• Remove clothing if it gets damp or wet. Wet clothing can make you more prone to hypothermia.
• Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia. Symptoms of frostbite can include loss of feeling and loss of color and usually happens on the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers or toes. Symptoms of hypothermia in adults can include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, drowsiness, or slurred speech. In infants, symptoms of hypothermia can include bright red, cold skin and low energy.
• Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol lowers the body’s ability to retain heat.
• Make sure your car is ready for the extreme weather conditions. Get your vehicle winterized and make sure tires are in good condition. Check your car emergency kit and replace any items that are broken or are unsafe to use.
• Call 511 or visit www.tmc.dot.ri.gov for current road conditions.