Weather Emergencies
Extreme cold warning: what to do?
Extreme cold warning: the right reflexes in a few simple steps.
Written by Mohamed IDBRAHIM · Updated octubre 13, 2026 · 7 min read
Immediate actions
- 1 Dress in layers and cover exposed skin.
- 2 Limit time outdoors and keep moving.
- 3 Never heat your home with the oven or a grill.
- 4 Check on elderly neighbors and pets.
What not to do / warning
Frostbite can occur in minutes in extreme cold — warm hands before feet.
When a extreme cold warning happens, the first minutes matter. Follow these steps to act safely and without panic.
What to do right now
- Dress in layers and cover exposed skin.
- Limit time outdoors and keep moving.
- Never heat your home with the oven or a grill.
- Check on elderly neighbors and pets.
Mistakes to avoid
- Acting before removing the immediate source of danger.
- Panicking or skipping the official procedures.
- Following unverified advice from the internet.
How to prevent this in the future
Regular checks and keeping important documents and numbers in one safe place go a long way. Note the emergency number for your country and keep it visible at home.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first?
Ensure everyone is safe, remove the source of danger, then call the relevant number or start the official procedure.
When should I call emergency services?
Whenever there is a risk to life, serious injury or a fire. When in doubt, call and let them decide.
Sources & references
- CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/extreme-cold/)