With low temperatures in Escambia County expected to drop below freezing Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, residents are encouraged to practice cold weather safety. According to the National Weather Service of Mobile, wind chill values tonight are forecast as low as 25 degrees for the Pensacola area, with a north wind of 5-15 mph and gusts as high as 25 mph.
No major winter precipitation impacts are expected for the area, but Escambia County road crews will be on call to address any potential icing on roadways.
Remember the five P's of cold weather safety:
- Protect People: Remember to dress in layers and wear a hat and gloves. It is important to try to stay out of the wind and to stay dry. Also, remember to check on young children and the elderly family and neighbors who are the most sensitive to cold weather. If the temperature cannot be maintained at a home, make temporary arrangements to stay elsewhere, including with friends and family.
- Protect Pets: If cold weather is in the forecast, be sure to bring outdoor pets inside or give them a warm shelter to stay in.
- Protect Plants: Cover cold sensitive plants to protect them from the dangerous temperatures.
- Protect Pipes: Cover pipes and allow outdoor faucets to slowly drip to prevent from freezing and breaking.
- Practice Fire Safety: Use safe heating sources indoors. Do not use fuel-burning devices such as grills; they release carbon monoxide, which is a deadly gas. Also, make sure to use space heaters according to their instructions and be attentive to open flames.
For more information, monitor the local media and legitimate online and social media sources like Escambia County Emergency Management and US National Weather Service Mobile.
