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Orange County Government Offices Closed on Monday, Jan. 26

All Orange County Government administrative offices and facilities will be closed on Monday, Jan. 26, due to severe winter weather.

Emergency Services and the Sheriff’s Office report dangerous road conditions that are not expected to improve by Monday. In addition, extremely cold temperatures will continue, creating unsafe conditions. The safety of county residents, visitors, businesses, and employees is our top priority.

The following Orange County facilities will be closed:

  • All Orange County Government administrative offices
  • Seymour Senior Center and Passmore Senior Center
  • Solid Waste and Recycling Centers
  • All Orange County Parks
  • Both Orange County Library locations
 

Public Shelter Open at Smith Middle School

A public shelter is open at Smith Middle School (9201 Seawell School Road, Chapel Hill).  Pets welcome with guidelines. The shelter is open to all, no ID required. Please call 919-245-6111 if you have shelter or storm related questions. Learn more here. 

Where to Find Shelter
Public Shelter Open at Smith Middle School in Spanish
Public Shelter Open at Smith Middle School in Mandarin
Public Shelter Open at Smith Middle School in Karen
Public Shelter Open at Smith Middle School in Burmese
 

What You Should Do Now

  • Avoid unnecessary travel.
  • Check on neighbors, especially seniors and those with medical needs.
  • Visit www.readyorange.org for more preparedness tips and updates.
  • Avoid frozen pipes by keeping the heat at 55°, open cabinet doors, and let faucets drip. If pipes freeze, shut off water, thaw safely (no flames), then slowly turn water back on and check for leaks. Do not call 911 for frozen or burst pipes.
Avoid frozen pipes
Avoid frozen pipes
 

What to Do if Your Power Goes Out

What to Do if Your Power Goes Out
What to Do if Your Power Goes Out in spanish
What to Do if Your Power Goes Out in Mandarin
What to Do if Your Power Goes Out in Karen
What to Do if Your Power Goes Out in Burmese

When the power goes out, staying warm and safe is critical. Heat one small room by choosing the smallest space, closing doors and curtains, covering doorways, and blocking drafts with towels or clothes. Keep body heat in by layering clothing, wearing a hat, using blankets, and huddling with people or pets. Eat and drink regularly—food provides energy to help warm your body. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, and stay hydrated. Use heat safely: never use gas ovens, charcoal grills, or generators indoors, as they can cause deadly carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Check out the videos below in English and Spanish for more tips.

Play 
Play 
 

Beware of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Beware of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Beware of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
 

How to Use a Generator Safely

How to Use a Generator Safely
How to Use a Generator Safely in Spanish
 

How to Use a Space Heater Safely

How to Use a Space Heater Safely
How to Use a Space Heater Safely in Spanish
 

Winter Fire Safety

Winter Fire Safety
Winter Fire Safety in Spanish
 
Keep up with the Latest Forecast from National Weather Service
Visit ReadyOrange.org for Information on the Winter Storm.
Sign up for OC Alerts to Receive Important Updates
 

Contact Information

Kristin Prelipp: Asst. Community Relations Director, 919-245-2322, kprelipp@orangecountync.gov

General Questions: webadmin@orangecountync.gov

Orange County Government

Website: www.readyorange.org

Bilingual Information Line: 919-245-6111

Language Assistance Services: 919-245-2498

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