Staying safe when it is bitterly cold outside
Jan 17, 2025
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - Bitterly cold temperatures are on the way to northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio. 15 Fury Alert Days are in place for Monday and Tuesday next week, as wind chills drop to dangerously low levels.
15 Fury Alert Days issued for extreme cold
You will want to make plans to limit your time outdoors. Dress in multiple layers, drip your faucets at home, and check on your neighbors.
Here are some tips to stay safe during bitter cold weather.
Breaking down further how you should dress during the incoming bitter cold, those multiple layers should be warm and insulating. You'll also want to wear a warm hat and a face mask to cover up your mouth and protect your lungs. Mittens are also more effective at insulating than gloves, which is important to remember, as your hands are close together. Wear waterproof boots as well, as getting wet increases your risk of hypothermia and frostbite.
Here is what you can wear when it is bitterly cold outside.
Remember, frostbite is when the skin actually freezes versus just your body temperature being low. Watch the video below to learn more...
Check on those most impacted by the cold, including newborns, the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, and unhoused people.
Check on these five groups of people when it is dangerously cold outside.
A reminder that it is not just people that are in danger when it is very cold. Pets also have to deal with the bitterly cold temperatures. Meteorologist Maddi Johnson with the National Weather Service says "It's not just you that you need to protect, but it's also your pets. So, especially if you have pets that are used to being outdoors, make sure to bring them indoors if possible and make sure they have adequate food and water and shelter to be able to stay safe in the cold weather."
Homes, pets, and safety: How to prepare for winter weather
Frozen pipes can also take place during arctic blasts. To prevent this from happening, trickle your water faucets, open cabinet doors to circulate warmer air around the pipes, and keep your indoor temperature consistent…the minimum temperature should be 55 degrees.Always know where the water shutoff valve is located in case of a water emergency too.
Take these steps to protect your pipes when arctic air moves in.
Stay warm next week and we'll be tracking the temperatures closely! For the latest forecast, visit our WANE 15 Forecast Page.