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Snowfall totals for the weekend remain uncertain, but dangerously cold weather is expected. Wind chills could fall well below zero, with frigid temperatures continuing throughout the week.

Preparing early and limiting exposure can reduce the risks of power outages, unsafe heating, frozen pipes, falls and hypothermia.

Prepare Before the Storm

Charge phones, laptops, battery packs and medical devices before severe weather arrives. Reserve a backup charger for emergencies, and keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio available for weather alerts.

Use flashlights or headlamps instead of candles whenever possible. Stock compatible batteries, a basic first-aid kit and a three- to seven-day supply of essential medications.

Keep food that can be eaten without cooking, including canned goods, snacks and other ready-to-eat items. If possible, store at least one gallon of water per person per day for several days.

Choose a small, relatively draft-free room where household members can gather if the heat stops working. Place blankets, sleeping bags and warm clothing there in advance. Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and replace batteries when necessary.

Vehicles should have at least half a tank of fuel and an emergency kit containing a blanket, charger, small shovel and water. Carry an ice scraper and use windshield washer fluid rated for freezing conditions.

Stay Safe During the Storm

Avoid driving when possible. Anyone who must travel should slow down, leave extra following distance and turn on headlights. Tell someone the route, destination and expected arrival time.

Stay away from downed wires and damaged trees, and report hazards to the appropriate authorities. Keep pets indoors and check on neighbors who may need assistance.

Treat steps and walkways early with salt or sand to prevent falls. When shoveling, take frequent breaks, push snow when possible and avoid overexertion. Chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness or unusual fatigue are warning signs to stop and call for help.

Handle Power Outages Carefully

If power fails, check whether the problem is limited to a tripped breaker. Unplug televisions, computers and other sensitive electronics to protect them when electricity returns.

Use flashlights or headlamps. Candles should be a last resort and must never be left unattended.

Move into the designated warm room, close doors, block drafts with towels and dress in layers. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors shut to preserve food.

A closed refrigerator generally keeps food cold for about four hours. A full freezer can remain cold for roughly 48 hours, while a half-full freezer may last about 24 hours. Discard perishable food that has been warm for too long.

When electricity returns, reconnect major appliances one at a time. Check heating equipment for unusual odors, smoke or sounds, then replace batteries and restock supplies used during the outage.

Avoid Deadly Heating Mistakes

Keep space heaters at least three feet from curtains, bedding, furniture and anything else that can burn. Plug them directly into wall outlets rather than extension cords or power strips. Keep cords away from busy walkways, and turn heaters off before leaving the room or sleeping unless the unit is specifically designed for unattended use.

Before using a fireplace or wood stove, open the flue and make sure a proper screen or door is in place. Burn only seasoned firewood, keep combustible materials away from the hearth and never leave a fire unattended.

Generators must operate outdoors, far from doors, windows, vents and garages. Direct exhaust away from nearby homes, and use heavy-duty outdoor extension cords kept clear of standing water. Never operate a generator in a garage, basement, shed or other enclosed or partly enclosed space—even if a door is open.

Do not use an oven, gas stove, grill, camping stove or charcoal as an indoor heat source. Use only equipment approved for indoor heating and follow its manufacturer’s instructions.

Carbon monoxide is odorless and invisible. Generators, grills and vehicles running in enclosed areas are common sources. Homes should have smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every level, particularly near sleeping areas.

If a carbon monoxide alarm activates—or anyone develops a headache, dizziness or nausea—move everyone outside immediately and call 911.

Protect Pipes From Freezing

During extreme cold, allow a faucet to drip slightly and open cabinets beneath sinks so warm air can circulate around pipes. Know the location of the home’s main water shutoff valve.

Warm a frozen pipe gently with a hair dryer on a low setting. Never use an open flame.

Watch for Hypothermia

Anyone going outside should wear suitable winter clothing and avoid prolonged exposure. Remaining outdoors without adequate protection can lead to hypothermia.

Warning signs include shivering, numbness, weakness, a glassy stare, apathy, impaired judgment and loss of consciousness.

Call 911 or the local emergency number if hypothermia is suspected. Move the person gently to a warm location, remove wet clothing, dry them and monitor breathing and circulation. Provide rescue breathing or CPR if necessary.

Warm the person slowly with blankets or dry clothing, focusing first on the trunk and abdomen rather than the hands and feet. Hot-water bottles or chemical warming packs may be used only after being wrapped in a towel or blanket. Do not attempt rapid warming by immersing the person in warm water.