Arctic temperatures this week are prompting American Red Cross officials to remind area residents of some cold weather safety tips.

A Cold Weather Advisory issued by the National Weather Service projects wind chills as low as 20 below zero overnight today, with the advisory ending at noon Wednesday.

“We’re facing bitter cold temperatures combined with life-threatening wind chills,” said Mary Rogers, executive director of the American Red Cross Northwestern Pennsylvania Chapter. “It’s important to take action to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your home. Heat your home safely, prevent frozen pipes, and take precautions if you need to go outside.”

To help residents navigate these dangerously cold conditions, the Red Cross offers the following advice:

– Stay Warm Indoors: If a home becomes too cold, consider relocating to a public library, shopping mall or warming center.

– Use Heating Devices Safely: Maintain a three-foot safety zone around space heaters or fireplaces. Always turn off portable heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.

– Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Do not use ovens or stoves to heat a home. If anyone experiences dizziness, weakness, or nausea, seek fresh air immediately.

– Dress Appropriately Outdoors: When venturing outside, wear layered clothing, hats, water-resistant boots, and gloves. Use a scarf to cover your face and mouth.

– Check on Neighbors and Loved Ones: Pay special attention to older adults and those living alone to ensure they are safe and warm.

– Minimize Travel: Stay off roads whenever possible. Those who are driving should keep an emergency kit in your vehicle.

Cold weather increases the risk of frostbite and hypothermia, both of which can be life-threatening:

Those at risk of frostbite should watch for numbness, pain, or discoloration in extremities like fingers, toes, and ears. Those at risk of hypothermia should pay attention to symptoms that include intense shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and drowsiness. Immediate action is required. Move to a warm area and seek medical assistance.

Exposed or uninsulated pipes are at risk of freezing during extreme cold. The Red Cross advises draining and storing outdoor hoses, keeping garage doors closed to protect water supply lines, opening kitchen and bathroom cabinets to allow warm air to circulate, letting faucets served by exposed pipes drip slightly and maintaining a consistent indoor temperature of at least 55°F, even if not at home.

For more safety tips and to shop for winter storm preparedness supplies, visit redcross.org/winter.