Hypothermia, Frostbite Possible During Dangerously Cold Weekend

BOSTON (CBS/AP) — State officials say they'll be monitoring dangerous cold and wind chills over the President's Day weekend.

Read: Brutal Cold Rolls Into New England On Valentine's Day Weekend

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency is encouraging people to wear proper clothing outside to prevent the Arctic air from causing frostbite and hypothermia.

The agency is also warning of carbon monoxide dangers from alternative heating sources and cautioning against using blow torches to thaw frozen pipes.

Keolis, the company that operates the MBTA's commuter rail system, says it might leave some locomotives running overnight to minimize cold weather equipment problems.

Watch: Latest Weather Forecast

The National Weather Service is forecasting below zero temperatures throughout the region Saturday night, with wind chills that could make it feel 35 below in some places. Winds could gust up to 45 mph inland and 50 mph on Cape Cod.

Cities across Massachusetts have opened warming centers where people in need can seek shelter.

On its website, MEMA issued a variety of tips for extreme cold safety.

Read: MEMA Extreme Cold Safety Tips

The organization said before frigid temperatures arrive, residents should know where their electricity, gas and water switches are located in order to be aware how to shut them off. If pipes freeze or burst, water may need to be shut down.

Pipes can be wrapped in layers of newspapers covered in plastic to stop them from freezing. In addition, letting a trickle of warm water out of a faucet helps keep water moving through pipes and prevents freezing, MEMA added.

Any drivers out on the road should have a winter emergency car kit and a gas tank that is at least half-full in the event that a vehicle breaks down.

With temperatures expected to feel like between -20 and -35 degrees Saturday night and Sunday, outside exposure should be kept to a minimum for both humans and pets alike.

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WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Kim Tunnicliffe reports