Well, we got through last weekend’s extreme cold, and the high temperatures are skyrocketing up to the low teens (yay?) for the rest of the week.
But it’s still January, and there’s plenty more cold days ahead until spring, with the temperature plunging below zero at night. Here’s some tips to stay safe during the winter freeze, whether it’s merely an annoyance for you or if it’s more of a life-threatening circumstance.
Cold Can Be Deadly
Since October 2025, Wisconsin has seen 20 cold-related deaths, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. Last winter, WDHS said there were 103 deaths in Wisconsin related to the cold.
If you or someone you know is in need of shelter, call 211.
It’s important to know the symptoms of frostbite or hypothermia. According to Public Health Madison and Dane County, symptoms of hypothermia can often resemble that of intoxication, including shivering, exhaustion, confusion and slurred speech. If you or someone else exposed to the cold displays these symptoms, call 911.
Frostbite symptoms include redness or pain on the skin. If you see those symptoms, get out of the cold if you can and/or protect any exposed skin.
In general, limit outdoor time as much as you can when there are winter storms, wind chill or extreme cold. That goes for your pets as well. If you have to go out, dress in several loose-fitting layers, and wear a hat, mittens and a scarf or other face covering.
Keep Your Home Safe and Warm
Water expands when it freezes, which puts pipes at risk of bursting, especially outdoor pipes such as water sprinkler lines, or pipes in unheated areas such as basements and garages. The Red Cross has some good tips to prevent pipes from bursting, such as closing inside valves to the outdoors, adding insulation to unheated areas, and removing and storing hoses.
Make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors. All Wisconsin homes are required to have such detectors on every level. Also make sure you have a well-stocked home emergency kit, including a first aid kit, flashlight and batteries, cell phone and charger, and food and water.
Plus, plan ahead for a power outage. If the power goes out, your refrigerator will keep food cold for four hours, and your freezer will keep its temperature for 48 hours. Once the temperature reaches 40 degrees or higher, it’s no longer safe to eat and should be thrown away. Make sure you have plenty of non-perishable food on hand, as well as a gallon of water for each person in the home.
Keep Your Car in Good Shape
That thing your parents told you about keeping the gas tank full during cold weather? It’s true (or at least keep the tank half full.)
Also, have a weather emergency kit in your car as well, including shovels and sand in case your wheels get stuck in the snow, blankets, jumper cables, snacks, and drinking water. ReadyWisconsin has some good tips for building an emergency kit for your home or vehicle, and even for your pets.
