With dangerously cold temperatures expected this weekend, the Bellefontaine Fire Department is reminding residents to take a few simple steps to stay safe and prepared.
Fire officials encourage people to check on elderly family members and neighbors to ensure they have adequate heat and essential supplies.
Pet owners are also urged to bring animals indoors, noting that if conditions are too cold for people, they are too cold for pets as well.
Residents should make sure their furnaces are in good working order ahead of the cold snap.
To help prevent frozen pipes, officials recommend opening cabinet doors under sinks so warm air can circulate around water lines.
The department also advises having an emergency preparedness kit ready, including blankets, flashlights, food, and important phone numbers.
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect from 7 p.m. Saturday until 11 a.m. Monday, according to the National Weather Service in Wilmington.
Frigid wind chills as low as 10 to 15 below zero are expected.
In addition, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 1 p.m. Saturday through 7 a.m. Sunday.
Snow is expected, with total accumulations of 3 to 5 inches possible.
Fire officials say looking out for one another during extreme winter weather can make a big difference.
Residents are encouraged to take precautions, allow extra travel time, and stay warm and safe throughout the weekend.
