Paul Daughtry didn’t let sub-freezing temperatures deter him from delivering the UPS packages in summer garb. If the Climate Conference held in Copenhagen, Denmark, in December of 2009 had been held in Colquitt, GA, this past week, the participants would have a tough time thinking we humans might be doing something to make it warmer or change the seasons. The warming had not hit the South, or any other part of the U.S.A. A warming trend would be welcome at almost any part of the nation.

Temperatures got down into the teens, and it didn't warm up too much as the sun came up, out and went back down last week. There were lots of frozen and cracked pipes from the freezes getting into the low 20s and into the teens.

The National Weather Bureau has predicted a warming trend into the 30s and even into the 40s for lows toward the end of the week and the next few days.

People are urged to use every precaution to avoid cold-related illnesses for themselves and their animals.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a person exposed to cold temperatures will begin to lose body heat faster than it can be produced. Prolonged exposure to cold will eventually use up a body's stored energy and the result can be hypothermia.

When your body temperature gets too low, it can affect your brain. When a person experiences hypothermia they may not be able to think clearly or move well. This is extremely dangerous because the person may not be able to do anything about it.

The warning signs of hy- pothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and drowsiness. Infants might turn bright red, have cold skin and very low energy. Anyone who notices these signs in another should take the person's temperature. If it is below 95 degrees, call E-911 immediately.

Health officials state that people most at risk for hypothermia include elderly people with inadequate food, clothing or heating; babies sleeping in cold bedrooms; people who remain outdoors for long periods of time, such as homeless people or hunters; and people who drink alcohol or use illicit drugs.

For more information on extreme cold weather and health-related issues, call your local health department or visit www.cdc.gov.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is also a concern when alternate sources of heat are used without proper ventilation. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include shortness of breath, nausea and headaches. People who have any of these symptoms are urged to seek medical attention immediately. People are advised to use heaters as directed by the manufacturer.

Those who have animals that live outdoors, should be placed in an area with an overhead shelter where they can be kept out of cold wind. They also need straw, hay or blankets to lie on.