Take Precautions for Significant Winter Weather as dangerous cold is upon us and remember to practice fire safety...

As we continue to progress into a prolonged stretch of dangerous, bone-chilling cold, as an anticipated Arctic air mass locks in for the remainder of the week and may linger into the weekend. Even with mostly sunny skies at times, this will be a cold that demands extra caution and significant precautionary measures, especially for anyone spending extended time outdoors.

High temperatures may only climb into the mid-20s under partly cloudy skies. The bigger concern comes during night time periods as we faces overnight lows in the low single digits to below zero, depending on location. Add in a steady breeze and wind chills may drop well below zero, potentially as low as 7 to 10 below zero. This is the kind of cold that can cause frostbite and hypothermia within minutes without proper layers and protection.

The combination of duration and intensity is exceptionally rare for our region and could create impacts beyond personal discomfort—especially stress on energy infrastructure, higher heating demands, and increased risk of frozen pipes.

As forecasters continue to monitor the potential for additional inclement weather - the bitter cold is a sure thing, and it will stay very cold through the upcoming weekend with predictions into early next week.

Illustrated herewith are various precautionary recommendations for mitigating inclement weather concerns and promoting fire safety.  

Prevent cold-weather fires by keeping all heating sources—space heaters, fireplaces, and stoves—at least three feet away from furniture, curtains, and bedding. Never use stoves or ovens for heat, turn off space heaters when leaving or sleeping, and ensure chimneys are cleaned annually. Use working smoke/carbon monoxide detectors.

Key Cold Weather Fire Prevention Tips:

• Space Heater Safety: Plug space heaters directly into outlets (never extension cords) and place them on hard, level surfaces.

• Fireplace & Wood Stoves: Use a metal screen to catch sparks, and ensure ashes are completely cooled before disposal.

• Generator Safety: Never run generators inside, including in garages or basements; keep them outside to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Candle Safety: Avoid using candles; opt for battery-powered flashlights or lanterns instead.

• Cooking Safety: Stay in the kitchen when frying or boiling food, and never leave home with the oven on.

• Electronics: Avoid charging devices on soft surfaces like beds or couches, as this can trap heat.

• Inspect your home's heating systems and ensure all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are tested monthly.