The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Chill Warning. "Bitter cold combined with gusty winds will lead to widespread dangerously cold wind chills beginning Thursday night. The wind chills have the potential to be once-in-a-generation cold late Friday into Saturday." Wind chills may be as low as 40 degrees below zero. Frostbite and hypothermia are possible without precautions.

1. Check on your senior neighbors and anyone who has trouble getting around.
2. Know the symptoms of Hypothermia and try to limit time outside during low temperatures (confusion, shivering, difficulty speaking, sleepiness, stiff muscles).
3. Keep pets inside as much as possible.
4. If you have to be outside, be sure to wear layers and cover your head, face, and all exposed skin.
5. If travel is necessary make sure your car is stocked with supplies and has at least a half tank of gas. 
6. Remember the 3 feet rule: if you are using a space heater, place it on a level, hard surface and keep anything flammable at least three feet away.
7. Check all chimneys and flues for blockages before you light your fireplace or wood/pellet stoves.
8. Do not use your oven, propane, or combustible fuel heater to try to heat enclosed spaces. 
9. Keep your pipes from freezing by allowing warm air to circulate and leaving faucets dripping in extremely cold weather. If you do experience frozen pipes, please contact a licensed plumber for assistance.
10. If you operate an electrical generator, make sure to place it outside in a well-ventilated area.

Keene Fire Department: Extreme Cold Safety Tips

Additional, temporary shelter space is available for those experiencing homelessness. Contact Hundred Nights (603-352-5197) or call 211. The City Human Services Department can also be reached at 603-357-9809.

If you experience a cold weather emergency, please call 911.