Two deaths confirmed in Louisiana due to severe weather conditions

RAPIDES PARISH, La. (WNTZ) — The Louisiana Department of Health has officially verified two fatalities resulting from winter weather in Sabine and Rapides parishes.

The deceased in Rapides Parish was identified as a 36-year-old male, while the Sabine Parish victim was a 73-year-old female. Both deaths were attributed to hypothermia and were conclusively declared weather-related by coroners.

These incidents mark the first casualties linked to the intense winter weather conditions that swept through the region from Sunday, Jan. 14, to Wednesday, Jan. 17.

In response to the severe winter weather, the Louisiana Department of Health emphasizes crucial safety measures for residents:

• Test Your Alarms: Ensure that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors have functional batteries.
• Safe Heating Practices: Avoid using stoves or ovens as heating sources for homes.
• Proper Generator Usage: Keep generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from doors, windows, and vents. Turn off generators and allow them to cool before refueling.
• Prevent Electrocution: Keep generators dry to minimize the risk of electrocution.
• Space Heater Guidelines: Plug space heaters directly into wall sockets, not extension cords. Do not use heaters with frayed or splitting cords. Place space heaters 3-5 feet away from bedding or other flammable materials.
• Child Safety: Keep children at a safe distance from heaters.
• Supervision: Never leave heaters unattended.

The Louisiana Department of Health underscores the importance of adhering to these safety measures during severe winter conditions to prevent further tragic incidents and ensure the well-being of residents.

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