Take precautions to stay safe as temperatures dip in Cleveland

This weekend, temperatures in Cleveland are expected to dip into the single digits again. Members of the Case Western Reserve University community are encouraged to avoid prolonged exposure and take precautions to keep themselves safe.

We’ve compiled suggestions to stay safe with the frigid temperatures. View the National Weather Service website for real-time updates and download the FEMA app to receive alerts for multiple locations.

Check the University Health and Counseling Services website to learn more about staying safe in the cold and visit the Division of Public Safety website to get information about preparing for emergencies.

Keep yourself warm

• Stay indoors as much as possible. If you must go outside, take a short break at least every 20 minutes. 
• Wear several layers of loose-fitting warm clothing; outer layers should be tightly woven and waterproof to protect against wind and moisture.
• Opt for mittens instead of gloves to better retain body heat.
• Add a scarf to cover your mouth and protect your lungs from frigid air.

Know the symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite

• Hypothermia: Hypothermia occurs when your body temperature drops significantly below normal, typically below 96°F. Symptoms include uncontrollable shivering, confusion, slurred speech, numbness, weakness, or even loss of consciousness. Hypothermia is life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
  • If you encounter an individual who you believe is experiencing hypothermia, call 216.368.3333 (on campus) or 911 (off campus) immediately.
  • To prevent further heat loss, move the individual to a warm place, change them into dry clothes, cover their body (including their head and neck) with blankets, and use something to block the cold (e.g., tarp, garbage bag). Do not cover their face.
  • If medical help is more than 30 minutes away, serve warm, sweetened drinks if the person is alert (no alcohol) and apply heat packs to their armpits, sides of chest, neck, and/or groin. 
• Frostbite: This occurs when body tissue is damaged by extreme cold, typically affecting extremities like fingers, toes, ears, or the tip of the nose. Early signs include numbness, waxy or discolored skin, and a cold, painful feeling in the affected area.
  • If you or someone you encounter seems to be experiencing frostbite, follow the recommendations for hypothermia; do not rub the affected area, avoid walking on frostbitten feet, do not apply snow or water and do not break blisters. Loosely cover and protect the area from contact. Do not attempt to reheat the area unless directed to do so by a medical professional.

Take extra precautions on the road

• Assess road conditions: If the roads are icy or snow-covered, consider delaying your trip until conditions improve. If you must travel, plan for the possibility of delays. Always let someone know your route and expected arrival time, so help can be dispatched in case of an emergency.
• Check your vehicle: Make sure your car is in top working condition by checking the battery, tires, brakes, and lights. In winter, it’s especially important to have winter tires with sufficient tread or chains if necessary.
• If you become stranded, start your car and run the engine for about 10 minutes every hour to charge your phone and run the heater. Keep a window slightly open to allow fresh air in and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Fill your car’s gas tank to prevent your fuel line from freezing and to ensure you have enough fuel if you get stuck or are delayed.
• Store a winter survival kit in your car with blankets, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight and extra batteries.
• Keep family and emergency contact numbers saved in your phone, including your auto insurance provider and a local towing company. 
• Consider carrying a power bank to ensure your phone stays charged during long trips or emergencies.

Be mindful of other precautions

• Gather supplies to have in the event of a power outage. 
• Take precautions to prevent water pipes from freezing.
• Ensure your pets have access to a warm, safe place.