MISSOURI – The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) issued its safety advisory for locals to consider amidst this winter storm, lasting through Thursday.

The department urges Missourians to minimize their risks for weather-related injuries, as the winter weather can bring unpredictable situations, such as power outages and travel risks.

Staying indoors

Staying inside is essential, and for those who may not have heat available, they can visit warming centers here or call 211 for further inquiries.

Dress warm

The department cautions individuals to dress warmly and be layered, from the head, ears and face. Water-resistant boots can also be beneficial to wear to combat the snow.

Push snow

Instead of shoveling, which can significantly cause a strain on the body, DHHS suggests that individuals instead push the snow with a shovel. Taking breaks during that process is crucial to avoiding cardiac issues, DHHS notes.

Check skin for frostbites

Analyzing the skin for potential frostbites can be important for one’s health during the winter storm. Frostbites, at first, can look pale or have a waxy white appearance on the fingers, toes, ear lobes or other areas on the body. Possible effects of frostbite include feeling a numbing or stinging sensation in the effected area. For individuals feeling susceptible to those symptoms, DHHS urges them to seek medical attention.

Monitor for hypothermia

In 2023, Missouri reported 37 hypothermia deaths and provisional data in 2024 showed 38 deaths relating to hypothermia. Signs of hypothermia include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, slurred speech, exhaustion and drowsiness. For individuals feeling susceptible to those possible signs, DHHS urges them to immediately go to a warm location and call 911 for assistance.

Check on neighbors and loved ones

With this looming winter weather impacting Missouri, it can cause one to feel worried about those close around them. Checking on loved ones and neighbors, especially older adults and individuals with disabilities, can bring one reassurance for those who matter the most. For those who may need extra assistance, DHHS urges those to call 1-800-392-0210 or visit its website for further information.

According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Missouri reported 38 carbon monoxide poisoning deaths in 2023, while 2024 recorded 33 deaths. 

DHSS’s safety advisories for power outages follow:

Heat safely

DHHS cautions those to not use gas stoves, ovens, kerosene or charcoal barbecue grills to heat homes; instead, it suggests other alternatives like fireplaces or generators when operated properly.

Using generators

Generators are to be operated outdoors and at least 20 ft from windows, doors or vents to prevent carbon monoxide from building up in homes.

Ventilation

For ventilation, DHHS insists that space heaters should be about 3 ft away from other objects. One should not run vehicles inside an attached garage, even with the doors open.

Test detectors

Amidst winter storms, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are to be checked.

Keep food safe

Preserving food is essential in case a power outage occurs. Storing food in refrigerators allows it to stay cold for hours without power needed.

Boil orders

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services encourages those to watch local news and observe social media pages for boil order notices.

Travel tips

DHHS cautions those to avoid traveling during winter storms. However, for individuals who must travel due to specific circumstances, it can be beneficial to carry essential items such as blankets, extra clothing or first-aid kits when out on the road.

The Missouri Department of Transportation’s travelers map can be accessed here for more information.