City of Grand Rapids urges residents to prepare for extreme cold

City of Grand Rapids urges residents to prepare for extreme cold

Published on January 21, 2026

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - With dangerously cold temperatures forecasted for this weekend, the City of Grand Rapids is reminding residents to take precautions to stay safe and protect their homes, pets, and family, friends and neighbors.

Warming Shelters Available

Residents without adequate heat are encouraged to seek shelter. Emergency warming centers and shelters are available throughout the city. To find the nearest location CLICK HERE or call 211. In life-threatening situations, dial 911.

• The Grand Rapids Public Library (GRPL) and its branches serve as warming centers during regular operating hours. While not an emergency shelter, GRPL connects individuals to additional resources before closing for safety reasons.

Protect Your Pipes

Frozen pipes can lead to costly repairs.

• Keep your thermostat at 55°F or higher, even if you're away.
• Open cupboard doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.
• Wrap or insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas.
• Let a slow drip of cold water run from the faucet farthest from your water meter.
• Know where your shutoff valve is located in case of a burst pipe.

Heating Safety - Avoid Fires

The Grand Rapids Fire Department occasionally responds to fires caused by alternative heating units. Incidents typically involve unattended propane and portable heaters, resulting in significant property damage and displacement of residents.

To prevent similar tragedies:

• Never leave space heaters or propane heaters unattended.
• Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn.
• Avoid heating unfinished spaces like attics or garages with portable heaters.
• Do not use extension cords with space heaters.
• Ensure proper ventilation when using fuel-burning heaters.
• Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors monthly.
• Residents can schedule a free home safety assessment and smoke/CO detector installation by calling 311 or (616) 456-3000.

Bring Pets Indoors

If it's too cold for you, it's too cold for your pets. Bring them inside and provide warm bedding. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can cause hypothermia and frostbite in animals.

Prevent Frostbite and Hypothermia

• Limit time outdoors and dress in layers.
• Cover exposed skin, including hands, ears, and face.
• Watch for signs of frostbite: numbness, white or grayish skin, firm or waxy texture.
• Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms occur.

Additional Tips

• Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze-ups.
• Avoid cruise control on icy roads.
• Sign up for local emergency alerts at grandrapidsmi.gov/EmergencyAlerts.

For more winter safety tips, download the City's Winter Preparedness Guide in English or Spanish or call 311 or (616) 456-3000.

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