Operation Winter Weather Warning: Getting Through the Night – and the Day Ahead

When power is out and temperatures plunge, the goal is simple: stay warm, stay calm, stay connected.

When the heat goes out and temperatures drop below freezing, fear and isolation can be as dangerous as the cold — especially for young children, older adults, and anyone living alone. Staying calm, creating connection, and focusing on simple steps can make a huge difference.

If the power goes out and temperatures drop below freezing, the goal is to preserve body heat, protect plumbing, and stay safe until heat is restored.

Over 40,000 Rhode Island locations are out of electricity – crews will be working throughout the night.

Here’s a practical, cold-weather survival checklist:

Keep Body Heat In (Most Important)

• Dress in layers: thermal base layer → sweater → coat → hat & gloves.

• Cover your head & feet — heat loss is greatest there.

• Wear wool or synthetic fabrics, not cotton (cotton traps moisture).

• Sleep in a hat and socks if needed.

Create a Warm “Micro-Zone”

• Choose one small room to live in.

• Close doors and hang blankets over doorways.

• Cover windows with blankets, towels, or cardboard.

• Use sleeping bags, comforters, or layered blankets.

• Build a blanket fort over beds or couches to trap warmth.

💡 Even body heat alone can raise a small insulated space several degrees.

Safe Heat Sources

Use only safe options indoors:

✔ Battery-powered heated blankets (if charged)
✔ Hot water bottles (if you can heat water)
✔ Hand/foot warmers
✔ Body heat (share blankets)

Never use indoors:
❌ charcoal grills
❌ propane camp stoves
❌ generators
❌ gas ovens for heat
❌ outdoor heaters

➡ Carbon monoxide is odorless and deadly.

Block Drafts & Retain Warmth

• Stuff towels under doors.

• Close off unused rooms.

• Close blinds and curtains at night.

• Open curtains during daylight for solar warmth.

Protect Pipes from Freezing

• Open cabinet doors under sinks.

• Let faucets drip slowly.

Stay Warm from the Inside

• Eat high-calorie foods (nuts, peanut butter, protein bars).

• Drink warm fluids if possible.

• Avoid alcohol (lowers core body temperature).

Prevent Hypothermia

Watch for:

• uncontrollable shivering

• confusion or slurred speech

• extreme fatigue

• numbness

➡ If symptoms appear, seek warmth immediately and medical help if possible by calling 9-1-1

When to Leave (there is a travel ban right now for all personal vehicles – if you feel you MUST leave, you also MUST call 9-1-1 for transportation information)

Go to a warming center, shelter, or hotel if:

• indoor temps drop below 50°F

• elderly, infants, or medical needs are present

• you cannot stay dry and warm

If you run your car for warmth:

• keep exhaust pipe clear of snow

• run engine outside only

• ventilate slightly

Bonus Tips Many People Forget

✅ Wear shoes inside — floors pull heat from your body
✅ Move periodically to maintain circulation
✅ Use candles only for light and never unattended
✅ Charge devices and conserve battery power

If you can reach your car, you can use a short period of time to warm up and to re-charge your phone – stay as briefly as you can and use this for emergencies only.

Stay safe — this kind of cold can become dangerous quickly.

EXTRA INFO:

Helping Young Children Feel Safe & Warm

Children take emotional cues from adults. If you stay calm, they are more likely to stay calm.

What to say

• “We’re camping inside tonight.”

• “We’re staying cozy together.”

• “We have a plan and we’re safe.”

Keep them warm

• Dress in layers, including hats and socks.

• Use sleep sacks, footed pajamas, or layers under blankets – even light snowsuits.

• Keep them close — shared body heat helps.

Create comfort

• Build a blanket fort.

• Read stories with a flashlight.

• Sing songs or play quiet games.

• Keep favorite stuffed animals nearby.

• Babies can drink bottles at room temp – while not ideal, it will work if you cannot warm up water.

Watch for cold stress

• cold hands/feet

• shivering

• unusual quietness or sleepiness

Infants lose heat quickly — keep them close and check frequently.

Protecting Older Adults

Older adults are at greater risk of hypothermia because circulation and temperature regulation are reduced.

Key precautions

• Keep indoor temperature as warm as possible.

• Dress in layers even indoors.

• Wear hats and warm socks.

• Use blankets while sitting.

• Avoid sitting still for long periods — gentle movement helps circulation.

Medical considerations

• Some medications increase cold sensitivity.

• Conditions like heart disease or diabetes increase risk.

• Watch for confusion, unusual sleepiness, or slurred speech.

If caring for an older adult

• Check skin temperature (cold torso is a warning sign).

• Ensure hydration and warm drinks.

• Keep a phone nearby for emergencies.

Supporting Those Living Alone & Feeling Panicked

Power outages can trigger anxiety and fear — especially at night and in extreme cold.

First: slow the panic response
Try this simple grounding technique:

• Inhale slowly for 4 seconds

• Hold for 4 seconds

• Exhale slowly for 6 seconds
  Repeat several times.

Remind yourself

• Power outages are temporary.

• You have taken steps to stay warm.

• Help is available if needed.

Reduce fear & isolation

• Call or text a friend or neighbor.

• Keep lights or a flashlight nearby to reduce darkness anxiety.

• Stay in one safe, warm space.

• Listen to a battery radio or calming audio.

Create a sense of control

• Set small tasks (layer blankets, make warm drinks, check supplies).

• Write down emergency numbers.

• Keep your phone charged and within reach.

Build Connection — Even From a Distance

If you have neighbors, family, or readers in your community:

✔ Check on someone elderly or alone
✔ Offer a phone check-in every few hours
✔ Share supplies if safe to do so
✔ Knock on a neighbor’s door if you’re concerned

Sometimes knowing someone cares lowers panic immediately.

You are not alone. Stay layered, stay calm, and stay connected. Warmth comes from preparation — and from people who care.