Colder temperatures bring new challenges. These quick tips from Virginia Tech Emergency Management and Division of Facilities can help you stay safe and prepared all winter long.

For all members of the Virginia Tech community

  • Prevent falls: Wear shoes with good traction on icy surfaces.
  • Be street smart: Look twice when crossing. Cars may not stop easily on ice.
  • Avoid carrying heavy loads while walking on icy roads
  • Dress appropriately for cold weather: Consider dressing in layers.
  • Ensure all windows are closed each day and that exterior doors close properly. If windows or doors do not close, please report the location to the Operations Control Center at 540-231-4300 or vtrepair@vt.edu as soon as possible. Expected cold weather could cause damage to building systems.

Winterize your car

  • Pack a kit: Ice scraper, shovel, salt, flashlight, water, nonperishable snacks, first aid kit, portable charger, booster cables, and a blanket.
  • Service your vehicle, especially antifreeze levels.
  • Stay informed: Bookmark the university status page for closures and delays.
  • Download the Hokie Ready App for real-time emergency updates.

For students living on campus

  • Keep heat on: Set your thermostat to at least 65°F to prevent frozen pipes.
  • Use sunlight: Open curtains during the day for warmth, and close them at night to keep heat in.

On-campus resources include:

  • Virginia Tech Division of Facilities customer service line is 540-231-4300 (outside of normal business hours, which are 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, contact the Virginia Tech Police Department at 540-231-6411)
  • Non-emergency repairs: Contact Virginia Tech Division of Facilities outage and issue at vtrepair@vt.edu
  • Submit a maintenance request online.

For students living off campus

(Check with your landlord or property management company first.)

  • Maintain heat: Keep your home at 65°F or higher, especially during breaks.
  • Seal drafts: Use plastic, tape, or door snakes to stop heat from escaping.
  • Change air filters: Clean filters help your heating system work efficiently.
  • Check detectors: Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms work and have fresh batteries.

Off-campus resources include: 

  • Virginia Tech Electric Service services some areas of Blacksburg: 540-231-6437

Written by Alyssa Tisdale

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