12/14/2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Richlands Department of Emergency Management
Bitter Cold & Wind Chill Advisory
Richlands, VA — The Richlands Department of Emergency Management is advising residents to prepare for bitterly cold temperatures and dangerous wind chills expected to impact the Richlands area over the coming days. Forecasted conditions may result in wind chill values well below freezing, increasing the risk of hypothermia, frostbite, and other cold-related injuries, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Residents are encouraged to take the following precautions to stay safe:
Dress for the Cold
Wear multiple loose-fitting layers of clothing.
Cover exposed skin, including hands, ears, face, and neck. Wear insulated, waterproof footwear.
Stay Warm Indoors
Keep indoor temperatures at safe levels. Safely use space heaters: keep them at least 3 feet away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended. Never use ovens, grills, or outdoor heaters to heat your home.
Heating & Carbon Monoxide Safety
Ensure all fuel-burning appliances are properly ventilated. Install and check carbon monoxide detectors. Never run vehicles, generators, or gas-powered equipment inside homes or garages.
Protect Pipes
Allow faucets to drip slowly to prevent freezing.
Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.Insulate exposed pipes when possible.
Check on Others & Pets
Check on elderly neighbors, those living alone, and individuals with limited heating. Bring pets indoors and ensure outdoor animals have adequate shelter, food, and water.
Travel With Caution
Limit travel during extreme cold when possible.
Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle including blankets, water, and a flashlight.
Know the Warning Signs
Frostbite: numbness, white or pale skin
Hypothermia: shivering, confusion, slurred speech, drowsiness. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms occur.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather forecasts and official announcements. For emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergency assistance, call 276-964-9134.
The Richlands Department of Emergency Management urges everyone to take these conditions seriously and to look out for one another during this period of extreme cold.
Reminder! We have opened the Police Department Lobby to the public as a warming and charging station.
Stay safe and stay warm, Richlands!
Ron Holt
Chief of Police
Director of Emergency Management