Frigid temperatures will impact the region beginning this weekend and authorities are encouraging residents to be extra cautious when going out in the extreme cold.

“Extremely cold temperatures can be hazardous and potentially life-threatening,” said Capt. Emmitt McGowan, deputy state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and commander of the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division. “We are asking that Michiganders monitor their local weather reports and follow the appropriate steps to stay safe during this cold spell.”

The National Weather Service is forecasting wind chills to cause temperatures to fall below zero at times Saturday night through Monday morning in the Lower Peninsula. Parts of the Upper Peninsula will experience below zero overnight temperatures through next weekend. Exposure to these temperatures could potentially cause frostbite and hypothermia, as well as create hazardous driving conditions.

To stay safe during cold weather:

• Stay indoors if possible. If you must go outside, wear protective gear, such as hats, mittens, gloves, scarf and a warm coat.
• Avoid overexertion when shoveling heavy snow, pushing a car, or walking in deep snow. Take breaks frequently.
• Watch for signs of frostbite, which include loss of feeling or pale appearance of fingers, toes or face.
• Watch for signs of hypothermia, which include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, drowsiness and exhaustion.
• Understand the hazards of wind chill. As wind speed increases, heat is carried away from a person’s body more rapidly and could lead to severe hypothermia.
• Remove clothing if it gets damp or wet. Wet clothing can make you more prone to hypothermia.
• Weatherproof doors and windows to trap heat inside your home.
• Check heating units. Poorly operating or damaged heating units can release carbon monoxide gas.
• Test carbon monoxide detectors for proper operation and battery life.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who are at risk and may need additional assistance.
• Watch pets closely and keep them indoors when possible. Animals can suffer from hypothermia, frostbite and other cold weather injuries.
• If travel is necessary, keep a full tank of gas and an emergency preparedness kit in your vehicle. Put warm clothing, such as gloves, blankets and hats, and a cell phone charger in your kit.