Bitter blast of cold weather chills New Jersey

<p>Bitter cold temperatures continued&nbsp;Wednesday in New Jersey with the possibility of snow in the weekend forecast.</p>

News 12 Staff

Dec 26, 2017, 11:44 PM

Updated 2,451 days ago

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Bitter cold temperatures continued Wednesday in New Jersey with the possibility of snow in the weekend forecast.
Garden State residents are urged to make sure that their pets are brought inside when conditions get this cold. A law signed by Gov. Chris Christie earlier this year makes it illegal to leave pets outside without shelter when temperatures are below freezing or above 90 degrees.
“Keep your pets inside. It’s the best way to ensure their safety and make sure they’re warm and cozy inside with you, which is really where they want to be anyway,” says Rose Tropeano-Digilio with Somerset Regional Animal Shelter.
Pet owners who violate the law can be fined up to $200 for each offense.
Health experts say that frostbite can be a concern for humans when temperatures get this cold.
The National Weather Service says frostbite is possible in as little as 30 minutes of exposure. The service also says 50 percent of cold weather injuries happen to people over 60 years old. More than 75 percent of cold-related injuries happen to men and about 20 percent happen at home.
Experts also say that homes should be prepared when temperatures drop below freezing.
Homeowners should allow their faucets to drop slowly in order to prevent pipes from freezing. Cabinets can be opened to allow warmer air to circulate.
Homeowners are also warned to never use a stove, oven or grill to heat their home. Space heaters should be on level surfaces and kept 3 feet away from anything flammable.