The Evanston Health & Human Services Department provides the following safety tips for extremely cold weather.  

Staying Safe Outdoors

The Health & Human Services Department recommends the following preventive measures for those who must venture outside:

• Wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. Wool offers good protection from extreme cold and moisture.
• Don’t forget to wear a hat, gloves and scarf. In extreme cold, frostbite can occur within 60 seconds or less. Make sure to cover all exposed skin.
• Wear waterproof boots or sturdy shoes that provide maximum traction
• Restrict outdoor exposure for infants, children and pets
• Keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency
• Seek medical attention if you notice symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite, such as skin stiffness, slurred speech, slow heartbeat, drowsiness, weak pulse, or slow or shallow breathing

Staying Safe Indoors

For those needing alternative sources of heat, the Health & Human Services Department issues the following reminders:

• Never use your oven for heat
• Any heater that uses wood, coal, natural gas or kerosene produces carbon monoxide (CO), so adequate ventilation is essential
• Never use a generator indoors, even with open doors or windows
• Use electric space heaters with extreme care, and avoid placing them near curtains or other flammable materials. Be sure to turn them off before going to bed.
• Install and maintain smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in every level of your home, replacing the batteries at least twice a year
• Drink water. Staying hydrated is just as important in the winter as in summer.

Staying Safe on the Road

• Don’t run your car or truck in your garage, even if you leave the door open, and make sure the tailpipe is clear of snow, ice and other debris
• Ensure antifreeze levels are sufficient to avoid freezing
• Maintain a full tank of gas

Prevent Water Service Lines from Freezing

During cold weather, property owners should take precautions to prevent the water service line from freezing: 

• Insulate or wrap UL-listed heat tape around water pipes
• Keep cabinet doors open under kitchen and bathroom sinks overnight to help prevent frozen water pipes, and insulate water pipes in unheated spaces, like garages, basements and crawl spaces
• Run water at a small trickle.