January 16, 2025 (MINNEAPOLIS) – Minneapolis city officials are sounding the alarm as dangerously low temperatures are expected this weekend, urging residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe and warm. With sub-zero temperatures on the horizon, frostbite can occur within minutes, and authorities are emphasizing the importance of preparation.
Warming Stations Available
Hennepin County is providing warming station options throughout Minneapolis and the Twin Cities for those in need. Additional locations can be found at the Salvation Army and various organizations when temperatures drop below zero. Residents are encouraged to stay indoors as much as possible and limit outdoor exposure.
Safety Tips for Cold Weather
To ensure safety during the extreme cold, residents should:
- Dress in layers and keep clothing and footwear dry.
- Check on family members, friends, and neighbors, particularly older adults who may require assistance.
- Familiarize themselves with the symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia, contacting healthcare providers if symptoms become severe.
- Maintain a winter survival kit in their vehicles.
Cold Weather Rule in Effect
The Cold Weather Rule is now in effect through April 30, preventing heat shut-offs for those unable to pay their bills. Residents are encouraged to seek help and resources on the State of Minnesota website, with information available in Español, Hmoob, and Soomaali.
Preparing Homes for Cold Weather
To keep homes safe and comfortable, residents should follow a cold weather checklist that includes:
- Keeping flammable items at least three feet away from space heaters.
- Turning off space heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.
- Avoiding the use of ovens for heating the home.
- Scheduling annual professional inspections of heating systems.
- Ensuring smoke and fire detectors are operational.
- Replacing furnace filters as needed.
- Sealing drafts with caulking and weather-stripping.
Minimum Heating Requirements for Rentals
From October 1 to April 30, rental properties must maintain a minimum temperature of 68°F. Renters experiencing heating issues should notify property owners or managers immediately. If no action is taken, they can report the problem by calling 311 or, outside of those hours, contacting 911.
Winter Vehicle Theft Safety Tips
Residents are reminded to be vigilant about vehicle theft during the colder months. Running vehicles left unattended can be prime targets for thieves. It is against city ordinance to leave keys in the ignition, and doing so may invalidate insurance coverage if the vehicle is stolen. Using remote start systems is legal, but residents should take their key fobs with them.
Snow Emergency Notifications
Minneapolis officials urge residents to stay informed about Snow Emergency Notifications by calling 612-348-SNOW or visiting the City’s website for more information.
Caring for Pets in Cold Weather
Minneapolis Animal Care and Control advises pet owners to keep their animals indoors during extreme cold. Pets can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia just like humans. Leaving pets unattended in cars or outside can lead to serious consequences, including hefty fines and potential seizure of the animal. Anyone witnessing an animal in distress should contact Minneapolis Animal Care & Control at 311 or, in life-threatening situations, call 911.
As the community braces for extreme cold, Minneapolis officials stress the importance of safety and preparedness for all residents.
