SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - As colder weather approaches Georgia this weekend, local health experts are urging residents to take precautionary measures to keep themselves and their families safe.

WTOC spoke with doctors from South Carolina and Georgia about the risks associated with winter weather and how to mitigate them.

The Hidden Dangers of Winter Weather

While many people are aware of the risk of falls and broken bones from icy sidewalks, emergency room physicians are emphasizing an often-overlooked threat: carbon monoxide poisoning.

“An extra concern is if you do have gas heaters in the home or gas stoves,” said Dr. Parker Lewis, an emergency room doctor from Memorial Health. “If you’re trying to use those modalities to keep your home warm, then you could be putting yourself at risk for some more scary issues like carbon monoxide poisoning.”

Recognizing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms

Carbon monoxide is a silent killer because it’s colorless and odorless, making it impossible to detect without proper equipment.

Dr. Lewis warns residents to watch for these warning signs:

• Headaches – Often one of the first symptoms
• Skin redness – Unusual flushed appearance
• Excessive fatigue – Unusual tiredness or weakness

How to Stay Safe

The best way to protect your family during cold weather is to install a carbon monoxide detector in your home.

These devices serve as an early warning system and can alert you to dangerous levels of the gas before symptoms become severe.

Additional Cold Weather Safety Tips:

• Use alternative heating methods cautiously and only as intended
• Never use gas stoves or ovens to heat your home
• Ensure all gas heating systems are properly maintained and vented
• Keep carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and test them regularly
• Wear appropriate footwear to prevent falls on icy surfaces
• Be aware of hypothermia symptoms in addition to carbon monoxide poisoning

As temperatures drop this weekend, taking these simple precautions could save your life and protect your loved ones.

When in doubt, consult with local health professionals and always prioritize safety over comfort during severe weather events.

Virtual Medical Assistance

Novant Health encourages community members to prioritize safety by limiting travel when possible.

For many non-emergency health concerns, an on-demand video visit can be a convenient option to connect with a provider from home in minutes, without an appointment.

Virtual care is available 24/7 and can help patients get the guidance and treatment they need while avoiding unnecessary trips during hazardous conditions.

Tap a button on your smartphone’s screen, and in just minutes, you’re in a one-on-one video appointment with a health care professional.

Novant Health says on their virtual on-demand visits, caring experts are available online 24/7 – no appointment needed.

All you need is an internet-connected device, like your phone or laptop.

Learn more using the links below.

Start on-demand video visit now

Start virtual Novant Health Urgent Care visit now

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