The Los Angeles County Health Officer has issued a Cold Weather Alert for the Santa Clarita Valley through Sunday due to the National Weather Service’s forecast for low temperatures. 

Wind chill temperatures are expected to be below 32 degrees Fahrenheit which has prompted the Cold Weather Alert, according to officials. 

Affected areas include:

•   East San Gabriel Valley — from Thursday, and Friday,, and Sunday 
•   Santa Clarita Valley — from Thursday to Sunday 
•   Lancaster — from Thursday to Monday 
•   Mount Wilson — from Thursday to Monday 
•   East San Fernando Valley — for Sunday 
•   West San Gabriel Valley — for Sunday  

“Taking extra precautions amid cold weather events is especially important for children, the elderly, those with disabilities and those with special medical needs,” said Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, Los Angeles County health officer. “Shelters and other public facilities are open for those who have no access to a warm space. It’s also important for everyone to make sure they are staying warm safely. Never heat a home with a stove, oven or barbecue as this could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.”

During these cold weather conditions, you can do several things to help yourself and others stay safe:

•   Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning   Never use a generator inside a home, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open. Keep generators outside and far away from windows, doors and vents. 
• Never use charcoal grills or camp stoves indoors. Deaths have occurred after people burned charcoal or used camp stoves in enclosed spaces, which produced lethal levels of carbon monoxide. 
•   Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven. 
•   Do not touch or approach a downed power line; call 911 if you see a downed or damaged electrical line. 
•   Avoid using candles. If possible, use flashlights instead. If you must use candles, do not burn them on or near anything that can catch fire. Never leave burning candles unattended or near children or bedding. Extinguish candles when you leave the room. 
•   Have a plan for back-up power if you or someone in your family is dependent on electricity for medical devices. 
•   Wear layers and have blankets available to add additional warmth. Layers will keep you warmer than a bulky sweater. Stay dry to avoid hypothermia. 
•   If it is safe, check on neighbors who may need assistance — older adults, people with disabilities and young children are more at risk in extreme cold. 

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