With subfreezing temperatures forecast for the next 11 days, students, faculty and staff are asked to help protect campus buildings by ensuring all windows and exterior doors remain closed.

Steps to take:

• Check windows and doors: Make sure all windows in offices, classrooms and residence hall rooms are tightly closed and locked when entering and leaving. In labs with ventilation systems, close down fume hood doors to prevent the exhaust of warm air.
• Before you leave for the day: Double-check that windows are sealed, lower sash heights to the lowest position and turn off snorkels not in use to prevent warm air exhaust.
• Set reasonable temperatures: Maintain room temperatures between 68 and 72 degrees.
• Close blinds or curtains: This adds insulation and helps retain heat.
• Report issues: If you notice a broken or open window or door, or a room that is excessively cold or hot, report it immediately to University Police at 573-341-4300.

Why this matters:

• Prevent frozen pipes: Even slightly open windows can allow cold air to freeze pipes in exterior walls, causing ruptures and significant water damage.
• Protect HVAC systems: Open windows disrupt heating systems, which leads to equipment strain, failure and uneven temperatures.
• Conserve energy: Keeping windows closed reduces energy use and utility costs.

Leaving windows or doors open – even slightly – during this cold snap can lead to severe damage to equipment, research and property. Your attention to these details helps keep campus safe and operational.