Extreme Cold Weather Safety & Energy Tips
Xcel Energy Tips: With below-zero temperatures, Xcel Energy encourages residents to take steps to reduce energy use and manage heating costs. Winter heating can account for a significant portion of monthly energy bills. Residents can save energy by setting thermostats to 65–70 degrees when home and 58 degrees when away, opening blinds during the day and closing them at night, ensuring exterior doors are fully closed, running ceiling fans clockwise, changing furnace filters monthly, sealing drafts, and setting water heaters to 120 degrees. Payment plans and energy assistance programs are available at xcelenergy.com/EnergyAssistance or by calling 1-800-895-4999. If you smell sulfur or rotten eggs, leave immediately and call Xcel Energy at 1-800-895-2999 or call 911 in an emergency.
CenterPoint Energy Message: CenterPoint Energy is also asking customers to reduce natural gas use as extreme cold increases demand. Conserving energy can help reduce the impact of higher natural gas prices on your bill. The cost CenterPoint pays for natural gas is passed directly to customers with no markup. CenterPoint continues to provide safe and reliable service, and additional energy-saving tips and efficiency program information are available through the company. If you smell a rotten egg or sulfur odor, leave the area immediately on foot and go to a safe location, then call 911 and CenterPoint Energy at 800-296-9815. Do not use phones, electrical switches, outlets, or vehicles, and avoid anything that could cause a spark.
Check Exhaust Vents: Residents should check that all heating exhaust vents and dryer vents are free from snow or ice buildup. Blocked vents can create safety hazards, including carbon monoxide buildup, and can reduce heating system efficiency.
Temporary Food Shelf: The temporary food shelf at City Hall is available to anyone who needs assistance and is not income-based. Community donations help keep this resource available for residents who may need extra support.
Water Main Breaks & Emergencies: If you experience or observe a water main break or water-related emergency, please contact City Hall during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. After hours, call 911 or the non-emergency line at 507-304-4863.
Additional Minnesota Winter Resources
- National Weather Service – Winter Preparedness: weather.gov
- Minnesota 511 – Road Conditions: 511mn.org
- MnDOT Winter Driving Tips: dot.mn.gov
Check on Neighbors: Don’t be afraid to check in on neighbors during extreme cold, especially those who are elderly, live alone, or may need extra support. A quick call or text can go a long way in helping everyone stay safe and warm.
