As extreme cold continues across the state, the Michigan State Police are urging residents to take precautions to stay safe. Officials recommend limiting time outdoors, dressing in layers, and wearing hats and gloves.
They warn that frostbite can develop in as little as 10 minutes, and hypothermia symptoms include shivering, confusion, and drowsiness. Drivers are urged to keep an emergency kit in their vehicles and ensure gas tanks are full.
Authorities also advise using generators and grills only outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, avoiding overexertion while shoveling, and checking on vulnerable neighbors, children, and pets. If stranded in a vehicle, residents should stay with their car and wait for help.
To stay safe during this extreme cold, the Michigan State Police recommend the following:
- Limit Time Outdoors – If you must go outside, wear several layers of warm clothing and always have a hat and mittens or gloves.
- Watch For Signs of Frostbite or Hypothermia – Frostbite can occur in as little as 10 minutes on skin exposed to extreme cold. Older adults, babies, and people who remain outdoors for long periods are more likely to be victims of frostbite and hypothermia.
- Frostbite symptoms: Numbness, loss of feeling, pale or waxy skin, especially on the face, fingers, and toes.
- Hypothermia symptoms: Shivering, exhaustion, confusion, slurred speech, or drowsiness.
- Keep a Winter Emergency Kit in Your Car –If you must drive, ensure your gas tank is full and your vehicle is stocked with an emergency kit, including warm clothing, blankets, gloves, hats, and a phone charger.
- Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning – Use generators and grills only outdoors and away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home.
- Avoid Overexertion – Shoveling snow can put extra strain on your heart, so take it easy and avoid sudden bursts of activity.
- Check on Others – Older adults, young children, and pets are especially vulnerable to extreme cold and should be checked on regularly. Keep pets indoors.
- Stay in your Vehicle – If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle and wait for help rather than attempting to walk in the cold.
The State of Michigan also has an information page for more information about preparing for the bitter cold. You can visit the state’s site by clicking here.
