Warren County emergency responders said a polar vortex that blasted the Midwest with subzero wind chills last week did not cause serious medical concerns in the local area.Warren County Ambulance Chief Tim Flake said there were a total of 36 medical calls from Jan. 29 through Jan. 31, when temperatures were among the coldest in decades. None of the calls were specifically cold related, and were for reasons such as difficulty breathing, chest pains, falls or drug overdoses, Flake said.However, the ambulance chief commented that the winter months in general come with medical concerns, and advised people to be cautious whenever temperatures drop below.“This time of year, everyone should have a full tank of gas and extra gloves and hats and a few supplies in your vehicle just in case,” Flake said. “When the temperature drops below freezing, there is always concern of frostbite and hypothermia due to exposure.”Medics also respond to more falls this time of year, Flake said. If someone falls outside, he explained that the cold ground can quickly drain that person’s body heat.“Simple things to remember are if you have a cellphone and are going outside, have (the phone) with you so you can call for help. If you live with someone, let them know you’re going out to get the mail so if you don’t return they know to check on you.”The animals of Warren County also faced challenges during the frigid weather. Warrenton animal control officer Brenda Klingler said officers received numerous calls to check on pets outdoors in the city limits.There were some potentially risky situations officers became aware of thanks to callers, and it’s typical for there to be more calls during cold times, Klingler said.“Thankfully we’ve been able to address issues and correct them,” she commented. “There have not been any tragic situations.”The animal control officers recommend animals to be taken inside during extreme cold unless that isn’t an option. Otherwise, Klingler said owners must provide minimum adequate shelter, including an enclosed area with bedding to stay warm. Also, animals must have access to water other than what’s frozen in their bowl, she said.Warren County Ambulance District