EDITORIAL: Remember to watch out for each other

Jan. 14—It's not over, these three-dog nights.

Last weekend's miserably cold weather was just the first round. Temperatures could drop back into the single digits Tuesday night, and then we'll warm up — climb back above freezing for a couple of days, if that's your definition of warm — before another winter blast returns, and overnight temperatures slip and slide back into the single digits later this week.

With that in mind, we urge readers to:

—Continue to check on relatives and neighbors, especially the elderly. Older adults often generate less body heat because of a slower metabolism and less physical activity. Make sure they have heat, water and supplies, including medicine.

—Check on pets and bring animals indoors. Some places will provide straw for residents to provide extra warmth for pets.

—Pay attention to the forecast and have a plan to keep warm in an emergency — extra blankets, sleeping bags and warm winter coats and clothes.

—If you use electric space heaters, make sure they have automatic shut-off switches and nonglowing elements. Keep them away from flammable materials such as curtains or blankets. Check your carbon monoxide detector. Every year, hundreds of people die and thousands more are treated for carbon monoxide poisoning, which can occur when carbon monoxide is released from space heaters.

—If you have to go out, budget extra time for the drive and go slow.

The heat is on

You know where all the heat is?

At Missouri Southern.

The women's basketball team has knocked off four ranked opponents in as many weeks, the most recent being the Fort Hays Tigers last Thursday.

The Lions 11-4 (7-2 MIAA) have climbed to first place in the MIAA.

They're on the road for their next couple of games, but back home on Jan. 24. Check them out.

As Globe sports writer Laurie Sisk noted in a recent column: "You should be there — if not to support the women on the team, then as a favor to yourself. If you are a true fan of the game, then you'll appreciate the play of this team."

Congratulations to the Lions on their run. We hope it continues through the rest of the season.