With temperatures expected to stay below freezing for an extended period of time this week, the Randolph County OEM hopes local residents will be smart about dealing with the cold weather.

The OEM first suggests that residents check the exhaust from their furnaces to make sure it is not covered with snow, and to make sure chimneys and flues are clean and suitable for use.

The Randolph OEM wants to remind residents to let their water drip to prevent water lines from freezing, and when using electric space heaters, do not plug them into an extension cord.

Space heaters need to be plugged directly into a receptacle, according to the OEM.

To illustrate how quickly weather can change, geese gathered in Glendale Park in Elkins Friday, just before the weekend’s winter storm and extremely cold weather.

Residents are reminded to not use fuel burning heaters indoors without proper ventilation, and to check the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, making sure they are working properly.

The OEM also requests that residents check on their neighbors, especially the elderly, and outdoor pets during extreme cold temperatures.

Officials said the 911 Center has received several calls in regard to warming shelters. The OEM has locations throughout the county that can be utilized as shelter sites in the event of prolonged power outages.

For those seeking shelter this week, the Randolph OEM suggests visiting the Refinery Church on 110 Third Street in Elkins. The church currently has a warming station open each day through Thursday from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.