Whether it’s the freezing cold of winter or the dangerous heat of summer, extreme temperatures can put your family, pets, and home at risk. Taking a few simple steps now can help you stay safe and comfortable year-round.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks that can cause dehydration.
Limit Outdoor Activity: Schedule outdoor work or exercise for early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower.
Stay Cool Indoors: Use air conditioning if available, or spend time in public cooling centers during heat advisories.
Check on Others: The elderly, young children, and those with medical conditions are most at risk from heat illness — check on them often.
Know the Signs of Heat Illness: Watch for heavy sweating, dizziness, or nausea. If symptoms occur, move to a cooler place, sip water, and call 9-1-1 if the person becomes confused or unconscious.
Keep the Heat In: Weather-strip doors and windows to prevent drafts. Close blinds and curtains at night to hold in warmth.
Use Heaters Safely: Keep space heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn. Plug them directly into a wall outlet — not an extension cord.
Prevent Frozen Pipes: Let faucets drip during freezing weather and open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate.
Be Prepared for Power Outages: Have extra blankets, warm clothes, and a safe heat source ready in case the power goes out. Never use a grill or generator indoors — deadly carbon monoxide can build up quickly.
Check on Neighbors: Older adults and people with disabilities may need extra help staying warm.
Sign up for local weather alerts or download a trusted weather app.
Keep an eye on your township’s emergency management updates during severe temperature events.
Always follow local advisories for heat warnings, wind chills, and power outages.