Build a safer warm zone
- 01
Check everyone for cold stress, move wet clothing away from skin, and call 911 for confusion, slurred speech, marked drowsiness, or other hypothermia signs.
- 02
Choose a small occupied area with safe exits, working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and no blocked heat or combustion vents.
- 03
Layer dry clothing, cover head and neck, insulate underneath people, use dry bedding, and close unused rooms without defeating required ventilation.
- 04
If using an approved electric portable heater, place it on a stable surface at least three feet from combustibles and plug it directly into a wall outlet.
- 05
Relocate before conditions exceed the household’s medical, temperature, power, or transportation margin.
Heating methods and hard limits
| Method | Appropriate use | Hard limit |
|---|---|---|
| Dry layers and bedding | Primary personal heat-retention layer | Replace wet material and avoid restricting breathing or circulation |
| Electric space heater | Only as labeled on a stable clear surface | No power strip, extension improvisation, unattended use, or nearby combustibles |
| Fireplace / installed heater | Only if installed, inspected, vented, and operated as designed | Do not improvise vents or burn unapproved fuel |
| Portable generator | Outside only, at least 20 feet away, exhaust away from openings | Never indoors, garage, porch, carport, crawlspace, basement, or shed |
| Grill / charcoal / camp stove | Outdoor cooking as labeled and away from structures | Never use as indoor heat or cooking equipment |
Relocation triggers
CO or smoke alarm
Get outside immediately and call 911. Never ignore, disable, or “wait out” an alarm.
Hypothermia signs
Confusion, slurred speech, fumbling, drowsiness, or temperature below 95°F require emergency attention.
Medical power failure
Relocate according to the clinical and device plan before batteries, oxygen, refrigeration, or caregiver capacity fail.
Unsafe building systems
Gas odor, damaged venting, fire, structural damage, or flooding means leave and contact authorities from safety.
Cold shelter and heating references
Shelter guidance and product instructions can change. Recheck official sources and follow local authorities, emergency services, and current manufacturer instructions.
Emergency heating FAQ
Is a generator safe in a garage with the door open?
No. CPSC says generators must never run in a garage or other enclosed or partially enclosed space.
Can an electric heater use a power strip?
CPSC says to plug an electric portable heater directly into a wall outlet, not a power strip.