Whether you are a lifelong Michigander or this is your first winter with us, we wanted to share some important winter information with you. Please review the following and pay attention to weather forecasts, current temperature, emergency alerts, and dress appropriately.
Indoor Safety
- Keep windows closed; leaving them open, even for a short period of time, can damage pipes and heating systems. Doors and blinds should also stay closed to keep warm air inside.
- Leave the heat on; it’s okay to dial back the temperature in your space, however, shutting off thermostats completely can lead to freezing conditions indoors.
- Report cold conditions and leaks as buildings are susceptible to frozen pipes that may burst and cause indoor flooding.
- If you notice areas of your space are unusually cold or observe water leaks, contact your service center immediately.
- Trash should continue to be double-bagged and put in outside dumpsters.
Outdoor Safety
- Dress warm. Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing.
- Always wear a coat, mittens, gloves and a hat.
- Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold.
- Keep an eye out for slippery conditions both indoors and out.
Travel Safety
- Carefully plan trips, avoiding extended periods of time outdoors.
- If you plan on driving, keep your car fueled, take a charger for your cell phone, and consider packing a small cold weather kit, including a blanket, bottled water and a snack.
- Be aware of slippery road conditions; even after crews have been out there may still be patches of ice snow on the roads and sidewalks.
- Do not park in the residence hall loops beginning Friday, as Infrastructure Planning and Facilities (IPF) need these clear for snow plowing.
Stay informed by visiting forecast.weather.gov, and make sure you are enrolled to receive all emergency notifications from MSU Police and Public Safety by visiting alert.msu.edu.
