The City of Grand Rapids is sharing a reminder to residents: Stay safe, protect your homes, family, friends, pets and neighbors.
As it relates to your home, they encourage you to protect your pipes, noting frozen pipes can lead to costly repairs.Keep your thermostat at 55 degrees or higher even if you’re away.Wrap or insulate exposed pipes and know where your shutoff valve is located in the event your pipes burst.
Regarding heating safety and ways to avoid fires. Never leave space heaters or propane heaters unattended. And keep heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn and install and test smoke alarms.
You should limit time outdoors and dress in layers to prevent frost bite and hypothermia. Plus, bring your pets indoors.
And for residents without adequate heat- they’re encouraged to seek shelter. Emergency warming centers and shelters are available throughout the city. Call 2-1-1 for locations.
More information can be found in the city’s “Winter Preparedness Guide” at grandrapidsmi.gov
