‘Extreme Cold’ Hitting Metro Detroit This Weekend: Safety Tips

METRO DETROIT, MI — Metro Detroit is bracing for extreme cold this weekend and local authorities are warning residents about how to stay safe in these temperatures.

The forecast shows the temps dropping into the teens, with up to 7 inches of snow predicted in parts of Southeastern Michigan. Exposure to these temperatures could potentially cause frostbite and hypothermia, as well as create hazardous driving conditions.

The Michigan State Police are helping residents navigate the frigid weather with some tips.

"Extremely cold temperatures can be hazardous and potentially life-threatening," said Capt. Emmitt McGowan, deputy state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and commander of the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD). "We are asking that Michiganders monitor their local weather reports and follow the appropriate steps to stay safe during this cold spell."

Here’s how to stay safe this weekend:

• Stay indoors if possible. If you must go outside, wear protective gear, such as hats, mittens, gloves, scarf and a warm coat.
• Avoid overexertion when shoveling heavy snow, pushing a car, or walking in deep snow. Take breaks frequently.
• Watch for signs of frostbite, which include loss of feeling or pale appearance of fingers, toes or face.
• Watch for signs of hypothermia, which include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, drowsiness and exhaustion.
• Understand the hazards of wind chill. As wind speed increases, heat is carried away from a person's body more rapidly and could lead to severe hypothermia.
• Remove clothing if it gets damp or wet. Wet clothing can make you more prone to hypothermia.
• Weatherproof doors and windows to trap heat inside your home.
• Check heating units. Poorly operating or damaged heating units can release carbon monoxide gas.
• Test carbon monoxide detectors for proper operation and battery life.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who are at risk and may need additional assistance.
• Watch pets closely and keep them indoors when possible. Animals can suffer from hypothermia, frostbite and other cold weather injuries.
• If travel is necessary, keep a full tank of gas and an emergency preparedness kit in your vehicle. Put warm clothing, such as gloves, blankets and hats, and a cell phone charger in your kit.

Image via Michigan State Police