Michigan State Police Advise Public To Be prepared and Safe During Extreme Cold This Week.

By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Temperatures will be frigid until the end of this week and with that in mind, the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division is encouraging Michigan residents to be extremely cautious when venturing out into the extreme cold.

According to the Michigan State Police, "These arctic blasts can create hazardous situations," said Capt. Chris A. Kelenske, Deputy State Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and commander of the MSP/EMHSD. "Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather reports and follow the appropriate steps to stay safe during these extremely cold and potentially life-threatening temperatures."

The National Weather Service is forecasting wind chills to cause temperatures to fall below zero at times through the remainder of the week. Exposure to these temperatures could potentially cause frostbite and hypothermia, as well as create hazardous driving conditions.

To stay safe during cold weather: This according to the MSP.

• Stay indoors if possible. If you must go outside, wear protective gear, such as hats, mittens, gloves, scarf and a warm coat. 
• Avoid overexertion when shoveling heavy snow, pushing a car, or walking in deep snow. Take breaks frequently.
• Watch for signs of frostbite, which include loss of feeling or pale appearance of fingers, toes or face. 
• Watch for signs of hypothermia, which include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, drowsiness and exhaustion. 
• Understand the hazards of wind chill. As wind speed increases, heat is carried away from a person's body more rapidly and could lead to severe hypothermia. 
• Remove clothing if it gets damp or wet. Wet clothing can make you more prone to hypothermia. 
• Weatherproof doors and windows to trap heat inside your home. 
• Check heating units. Poorly operating or damaged heating units can release carbon monoxide gas. Test carbon monoxide detectors for proper operation and battery life. 
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who are at risk and may need additional assistance.
• Watch pets closely and keep them indoors when possible. Animals can suffer from hypothermia, frostbite and other cold weather injuries. 
• Minimize travel. If travel is necessary, keep a full tank of gas and an emergency preparedness kit in your vehicle. Put warm clothing, such as gloves, blankets and hats, in your kit in case you become stranded.

The State Police is reminds residents that, "Michigan weather is unpredictable any time of year, but especially during the winter months. If you are stranded, do not leave your vehicle. Stay with the vehicle and wait for help."