January 31, 2008
Snow Conditions Prompt Health District to Close

Hayden, ID -- The Panhandle Health District (PHD) will be closed Friday, Feb. 1, in all five northern counties and will close at 4 p.m. today due to weather and road conditions.

        “’We want to keep clients and staff off the roads as much as possible,” says Jeanne Bock, PHD director.

        Appointments will be rescheduled. Clients who aren’t contacted about rescheduling should call 415-5270 in Kootenai County; 245-4556 in Benewah County; 263-5159 in Bonner County; 267-5558 in Boundary County; and 786-7474 in Shoshone County.

        PHD encourages people to stay off the roads a much as possible and cautions them against using propane heaters indoors in the event of power outages. Devices powered by propane, natural gas, charcoal or gasoline produce carbon monoxide that builds up indoors even with open windows.

        Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause loss of consciousness and death. Common symptoms are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. Anyone suspecting carbon monoxide poisoning should seek medical attention immediately.

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