Illinois winters can be no joke — and when temperatures drop into dangerous territory (even -20°F to -40°F), everyday problems can turn into expensive emergencies fast.
The good news? A little preparation can help protect your home, vehicles, business, and pets, and may even help reduce the chance of a claim.
Here’s your easy checklist to stay safe and reduce damage during extreme cold.
1) Protect Your Home From Freezing Temperatures
Prevent Frozen & Burst Pipes. Frozen pipes are one of the most common (and costly) winter issues.
Do this now:
- Keep your thermostat set consistently (day & night)
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate
- Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold (especially on exterior walls)
- Insulate exposed pipes (basements, crawlspaces, garages)
- Disconnect outdoor hoses and shut off exterior water lines if possible.
The National Weather Service recommends knowing how to shut off your water in case pipes burst.
Prepare for Power Outages. Extreme cold can cause power outages — and when it’s below zero, that becomes dangerous quickly.
Stock up on:
- Flashlights + batteries (skip candles)
- Phone power banks
- Extra blankets and warm clothing
- Nonperishable food + bottled water
Carbon monoxide danger: Never use ovens, grills, or generators indoors to heat your home. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a major winter risk.
Reduce Heat Loss
- Seal drafts around doors/windows (weather stripping helps a lot)
- Close curtains at night
- Keep garage doors shut
- If you have a fireplace, make sure the flue works properly
2) Prepare Your Business (And Reduce Shutdown Risk)
If you own a business, extreme cold can mean frozen plumbing, property damage, lost revenue, and liability concerns.
Business Cold-Weather Checklist
- Keep heat running even during closures
- Have a plan for power loss (backup power or shutdown plan)
- Protect sprinkler/fire suppression systems from freezing
- Salt and clear entryways to reduce slip-and-fall risks
- Assign someone to check the building during cold snaps.
Protect Equipment & Inventory
- Move temperature-sensitive supplies away from exterior walls
- Cover exposed piping in stockrooms or basements
- Confirm your building alarm & monitoring system will still function
3) Get Your Car Ready for -40°F Wind Chills
Extreme cold is brutal on vehicles — especially batteries and tire pressure.
Quick Vehicle Prep
The National Weather Service recommends checking essentials like:
- Tire pressure
- Antifreeze levels
- Heater/defroster
- Carrying a winter survival kit.
Also do this:
- Keep your gas tank at least half full
- Replace worn wiper blades
- Top off windshield washer fluid (winter-rated)
- Keep an ice scraper + snow brush in the car
Build a Winter Emergency Car Kit
Pack these in a bin or bag:
- Blanket / sleeping bag
- Gloves, hat, extra socks
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight
- Water + snacks
- Small shovel
- Phone charger
CDC also emphasizes winter preparation including having supplies and getting your vehicle ready before storms arrive.
4) Don’t Forget Your Pets (They Feel the Cold Too)
Even tough-looking pets can get frostbite and hypothermia quickly.
Pet Safety Basics
- Bring pets indoors during extreme cold
- Keep walks short (especially in subzero temps)
- Wipe paws after walks (salt/de-icer can irritate or burn)
- Watch for signs of frostbite/hypothermia (shivering, weakness, blue or pale skin).
The American Veterinary Medical Association notes pets may need extra calories in winter and that cold tolerance varies by animal and health condition.
If your pet spends any time outside:
- Make sure they have a dry, wind-blocked shelter
- Provide unfrozen water
- Use thick bedding (not towels that freeze)
5) Protect People Too (This Cold Is Dangerous)
This level of cold isn’t just uncomfortable — it’s hazardous. Frostbite and hypothermia can happen fast. CDC highlights frostbite as a serious condition from exposure to extremely cold temperatures.
Dress for survival, not style:
- Wear layers (loose and warm)
- Cover ears, hands, face
- Choose mittens over gloves when possible.
National Weather Service guidance recommends covering exposed skin and dressing in layers.
Helpful Winter Safety Resources (Trusted Links)
Here are official, reliable resources you can share with clients:
- Ready.gov Winter Storm Preparation
- CDC Winter Weather Safety & Prep
- National Weather Service Extreme Cold Safety
- AVMA Cold Weather Pet Safety
- American Red Cross Winter Storm Checklist
Final Tip: Review Your Insurance Before the Freeze Hits
Extreme cold can lead to:
- burst pipes and water damage
- roof and ice dam issues
- frozen equipment and business interruption
- vehicle accidents and breakdowns
If you’re not sure what your policy covers (home, commercial, or auto), it’s smart to review it before the next deep freeze.
Call us at (630) 377-0700!
