Extreme Cold Preparedness
During cold weather, you should take the following precautions:
- Stay inside as much as possible and limit your time spent in the cold
- Dress in layers and keep clothes and footwear dry
- Check on family, friends and neighbors who are at risk and may need additional assistance
- Know the symptoms of cold-related health issues such as frostbite and hypothermia and seek medical attention if health conditions are severe
- Bring your pets indoors or make sure they have warm shelter area outdoors with unfrozen water
- Make sure your vehicle has an emergency kit that includes an ice scraper, blanket and flashlight, and try to keep the fuel tank above half full
Hypothermia
Warning signs in adults:
- shivering, exhaustion
- confusion, fumbling hands
- memory loss, slurred speech
- drowsiness
Warning signs in infants:
- bright red, cold skin
- very low energy
Read the CDC Guide to Preventing Hypothermia and Frostbite
Frostbite
Warning signs:
- a white or grayish-yellow skin area
- skin that feels unusually firm or waxy
- numbness
Extreme cold preparedness for pets
- Cold weather pet safety
- How to keep your pets safe when severe winter weather hits
- Protect your pet during winter and cold weather
Cold Weather Rule
Minnesota's Cold Weather Rule helps homeowners and renters protect and reconnect heat during the winter months beginning October 15th. See MN Public Utilities Commission Cold Weather Rule or the Cold Weather Rule brochure for more information.
Other Cold-related Concerns
Additional Information
- Extreme Cold: A Prevention Guide to Promote Your Personal Health and Safety
- National Weather Service
- Be Ready! Winter Weather
More information and tips on being ready for winter weather and extreme cold temperatures can be found at www.ready.gov/winter.
Winter Safety
Accommodations
Should you require a reasonable accommodation in order to fully participate, or information in an alternative format, please contact 612-673-2301.
Para asistencia 612-673-2700 - Rau kev pab 612-673-2800 - Hadii aad Caawimaad u baahantahay 612-673-3500.
Last updated May 13, 2019
