Prepare for extreme cold as you would for a storm
- Make sure to wear a warm hat and gloves or mittens.
- Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia: Slurred speech, confusion, uncontrollable shivering, stumbling, drowsiness and body temperature of less than 95° F.
- Get immediate medical attention if you think someone has frostbite or hypothermia.
- Warm the core body temperature with a blanket and warm fluids.
- Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages.
- Bring pets inside
To prevent frozen pipes:
- Soak towels in hot water and wrap them around cold sections of the pipe.
- Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
- Turn on faucets enough to let them drip slowly. Keeping water moving within pipes will prevent freezing.
- Monitor your faucets for reduced water flow.
- Pipes that burst: If a pipe has burst, shut off the main valve and call a plumber.
- If your furnace goes out: Call your service provider. Use an alternative heat source such as a wood stove or fireplace in the meantime. Do not use your stove/oven as a source of heat. This increases your risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Cold air drafts: Caulk gaps in windows and doors or add weather stripping.
- When away from home: Keep your temperature at least 65 degrees. Have someone check on your house regularly while you’re away.