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The National Weather Service is currently predicting dangerously cold temperatures for central North Carolina beginning Monday, Jan. 20 through Wednesday, Jan. 22. Temperatures are expected to hover in the low teens to upper 20s during this time, with wind chills in the single digits.

Facilities Services will be monitoring campus conditions and building environmental systems, and crews are prepared to respond to emergencies as needed. Facilities may experience a higher call volume due to additional demands on building systems, so we appreciate your patience as we respond to issues.

Report Issues Promptly

Cold temperatures can lead to heating system failures, leaks and frozen water pipes. If you notice an issue in your building or residence hall, report it to Facilities Services immediately:

  • Residence halls
    • During regular business hours, submit a Fix-My-Room request online.
    • During evenings, weekends or holidays, contact the Service Desk for your building.
  • For all other campus buildings:
    • Call Facilities Customer Service at 919-962-3456 or submit an online Maintenance Request.
    • Calls outside of business hours will be routed to UNC Police who will notify on-call staff.

Building Tips

Make sure windows and doors are closed tightly to prevent cold air from entering buildings. A reminder that the University has policies that restrict the use of portable space heaters.

  • Space heaters are prohibited for use in residence halls.
  • Electric space heaters used in office and work areas are not permitted if units have a filament that glows “red-hot”. Electric space heaters must also be equipped with an automatic shutoff, in case the heater is accidentally tipped over.
  • Portable heaters should be turned off when not in use – check before leaving area to ensure this has occurred.

Working Safely Outdoors

Anyone working in a cold environment may be at risk of cold stress. Employees who may be required to work outdoors should monitor their physical condition and that of coworkers. To help prevent cold stress:

  • Limit time outdoors and take breaks in a warm location.
  • Wear layers, preferably with a wind-resistant outer layer.
  • Stay dry; open up layers if you begin to sweat.
  • Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
    • Confusion
    • Loss of muscular control
    • Waxy or hard skin
    • Numbness or tingling
    • Loss of consciousness
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