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Be Emory READY by preparing for ice, snow and freezing temperatures
Emory gate in winter

With the recent cold temperatures and another cold front forecast for this weekend — with low temperatures in the teens — it is prudent to review steps to stay safe during winter weather events. Although less common than some scenarios, ice and snow events can have a serious impact in the Atlanta area.

Additionally, risks associated with extreme cold include hypothermia and frostbite.


Keep these safety tips in mind:
  • Stay dry; wet clothing speeds up the loss of body heat.
  • Stay covered; use mittens or gloves and a hat to prevent heat loss.
  • Dress in layers; air trapped between loose layers helps to insulate your body.
  • Keep a winter weather kit in your car with items that you may need if you become stranded on a roadway: blankets, water bottles, a small shovel and non-clumping cat litter (for traction on ice).
  • In addition to the risk that extreme cold brings to people and animals, cold temperatures can also cause problems like frozen pipes, which may lead to the loss of water pressure and ruptured pipes.
  • In the event of a utility failure on campus, do not attempt to correct the problem yourself. Immediately call Campus Services during regular business hours (8 a.m.-5 p.m.) at 404-727-7463 or notify Emory Police at 404-727-6111.

Prepare your home for cold weather:
  • Have extra blankets, sleeping bags and warm winter coats stored in an accessible place.
  • Have a cell phone with an emergency charging option (car, solar, hand crank, etc.) in case of a power failure.
  • People who depend on electricity to operate medical equipment should have alternate arrangements in place in case the power is out for an extended period.
  • Make a plan for checking on elderly/disabled relatives and neighbors.
  • Be prepared to bring pets inside.
  • Make an emergency “ready kit” that includes water, nonperishable foods, flashlights, extra batteries and first aid supplies.

Prepare your vehicle:
  • Fully winterize your vehicle.
  • Have a mechanic check the antifreeze, brakes, heater and defroster, tires and windshield wipers to ensure they are in good shape.
  • Always keep your gas tank at least half full.
  • Keep an extra “ready kit” in the trunk of your car. In addition to the basic essentials, consider adding a portable cell phone charger, ice scraper, extra blankets, jumper cables and sand or non-clumping cat litter for traction.
  • Have a cell phone with an emergency charging option (car, solar, external battery, etc.) in case of a power failure.

In addition to general safety precautions, Emory READY helps strengthen each person’s ability to be aware, prepared and ready for unexpected situations when on campus. 


Follow five steps to be Emory READY throughout the year:
  1. Enroll in the Emory Emergency Notification program.
  2. Download the Emory Safe app.
  3. Review emergency information including the Student and Faculty/Staff Preparedness Checklists and the Just-in-Time Guide for Campus Emergencies.
  4. Identify and locate emergency resources including severe weather refuge areas, fire exits and automated external defibrillator (AED)
  5. Take Life Support Training on campus to learn CPR, how to use an AED, how to treat an obstructed airway and how to control bleeding.

Safety resources at Emory

Emory Safe app

Office of Critical Event Preparedness and Response

Emory “Just in Time” Guide

Emory Police Department

Atlanta and Oxford campus emergency phone: 404-727-6111

Atlanta campus non-emergency phone: 404-727-8005

Oxford campus non-emergency phone: 404-727-6115


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