Bitterly cold weather is forecasted for the area for the next handful of days, with lows predicted to be in the -12 to -16 degree range. Combine those temperatures with the ice and snow already on the ground, and it can be a safety issue, not only for you, but for the various UNMC and Nebraska Medicine buildings.
Facilities offers a few work reminders when it comes to cold, snowy weather.
- Be extra cautious when navigating on foot or in your car. Included below are some winter walking advice, and AAA offers some winter driving tips.
- Help Facilities ensure the interior of the med center’s buildings stays warm and safe by making sure doors are closing behind you when you enter and that any exterior doors are not propped open.
- If colleagues feel like their area is uncomfortably cold and something is wrong, they should submit a work ticket as soon as possible to prevent anything from potentially freezing and becoming a larger problem.
- Look for any leaks, drips or signs of broken pipes.
For any nonemergency Facilities issues, call the Facilities Help Desk at 402-552-3347 or submit a Facilities request.
Cold-weather safety tips
Take note of the following safety tips for extreme cold and inclement weather:
- Dress warm for the cold: Cover all exposed skin to limit exposure and the potential for frostbite. Be prepared for emergencies and take extra precautions to ensure your safety.
- Have a buddy system: If you are traveling, make sure someone knows where you are in case of an emergency. On campus, use 402-559-5555 to report emergencies 24 hours a day or call 402-559-5111 to request assistance from UNMC Public Safety, which provides motorist assistance to vehicles on-campus only.
- Power outages are possible: Have a plan for how to stay warm or where to go if the power goes out. Do not burn charcoal or use gasoline indoors.
- Staying warm indoors: Close off rooms you don’t need and have an emergency kit available, including blankets. Use only safe sources of alternative heat such as a fireplace, small well-vented wood or coal stove or portable space heaters. Dress in layers and wear a cap.
- Winter walking: Walk like a penguin. Take shorter, shuffle-like steps to maintain balance. Wear appropriate anti-slip footwear with good traction for snow and ice. Walk with your arms at your side, watch your step and avoid ice if possible.