Now is the time to take steps now to protect your property and health from the extreme cold expected over the next few days:
- If you go outside, wear loose-fitting layers of lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing
- Mittens are warmer than gloves
- Wear a hat and cover your mouth with a scarf
- Keep your gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
- Check your antifreeze and windshield washer fluid levels
Cold weather results in high demand for electricity. Power outages may occur.
- Fully charge your cell phone
- Consider backup heat or electrical sources
- Generators should be placed in a well-ventilated area
- Do not run generators inside homes
- Do not heat interior buildings with charcoal grills
- Provide sufficient ventilation if using propane gas or kerosene-type heaters
- Do not leave candles and open fireplaces unattended
- Maintain a minimum of 3 feet of clearance around all alternate heating sources
- Check in on family, friends, and elderly neighbors who might be susceptible to the cold.
Do not forget about your pets and livestock. Make sure they have a source of water that will not freeze and a warm place to take shelter from the wind and cold.
Do not attempt to walk on frozen ponds, lakes, or streams, as the ice will not be thick enough to support the weight, even of a child.