CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — Cedar Rapids police are reminding residents to take extra precautions as dangerously cold temperatures move into the area, urging simple steps that can help prevent emergencies and keep people safe.
Officials advise using caution with auxiliary heating units, keeping flammable materials at least three feet away from space heaters, and never using outdoor grills, especially charcoal grills, indoors as a heat source due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Residents are also encouraged to ensure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
Police recommend covering exposed skin when outdoors, bringing pets inside, and checking on elderly neighbors and family members during the cold snap…