DETROIT (Dec. 22, 2022) – The American Red Cross is offering winter weather safety tips as the Michigan region prepares for a winter storm that is forecast to bring heavy snowfall, extreme cold, freezing rain and high winds.

“The Red Cross stands ready to assist our first responders and community partners if needed to provide humanitarian services throughout the duration of this winter storm,” said Darwin Roche, regional disaster officer for the Red Cross in Michigan. “Please take care of your families and loved ones, including your pets, and check in on your neighbors. And stay safe.”

On Thursday, the Red Cross delivered cots, blankets and comfort kits to two Detroit emergency shelters. Red Cross volunteers will also provide assistance at the shelters. Similar services would be provided in other parts of the state if needed, Roche said.

Here are helpful winter weather safety tips from the Red Cross:

Stay Warm

• Stay indoors to prevent cold weather injuries like frostbite and hypothermia.
• Drink plenty of warm fluids. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Avoid travel if you can. If you must go outdoors, dress properly to protect yourself from the cold. Wear layers of loose clothing, a coat, hat, mittens and water-resistant boots. Wear a scarf to cover your face and mouth.
• Know where to go if your home loses power – a friend or loved one’s house, a shelter or a warming center.

Stay Connected

• Sign up for free emergency alerts from your local government and download the Red Cross emergency preparedness app at redcross.org/apps.
• Monitor weather reports and local news.
• Keep your phone charger handy.
• Have a battery-powered radio to use if a power outage occurs.

Have Emergency Supplies at Home and in Your Car

• Stock up on food and water. Get medication refills if needed.
• If you have to go out, pack your car with blankets, warm clothing, a first-aid kit, phone charger, and boots.
• Be careful shoveling or plowing snow. Take frequent breaks, and if possible, work with a partner. Stay hydrated. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Use ice-melting products to keep your walkways safe at home.

Home Safety

• Exercise care with space heaters and fireplaces to prevent a fire. Keep anything that could catch fire at least 3 feet from the heat.
• Avoid using candles because of the fire risk. Use battery-powered lights and flashlights instead.
• To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and home fires, NEVER heat your home with a cooking oven or stove. ONLY use power generators, grills and camp stoves outdoors and away from windows. Also, DON’T warm your car in the garage with the door closed.
• If you need to talk to someone, call or text the Red Cross Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-895-5990.
• Consult the Red Cross Power Outage Safety Checklist in multiple languages: (English, Spanish, Arabic, Burmese, French, Hakha Chin, Polish, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese).

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MEDIA CONTACT:

David Olejarz | david.olejarz@redcross.org | 313-303-0606

About the American Red Cross 
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.