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ALPENA – The forecast from the National Weather Service calls for unseasonably frigid temperatures through the rest of this week and the weekend.

To make sure everyone stays safe during the severe cold, it’s important to plan and take action to make sure friends, family, and pets avoid harm when temperatures drop well below zero.

The News spoke with NWS Meteorologist Faith Fredrickson to find out how long the cold weather will stick around.

“Through the next couple weeks, we are seeing pretty strong signals for cold air to hang out throughout the eastern Midwest, including Michigan,” Fredrickson said.

Fredrickson suggests anyone who must travel or go outside should dress appropriately and bring emergency supplies.

“You want to bring an emergency kit in case you get stranded. Kitty litter, and food that you don’t have to heat or keep cold, granola bars are a good option,” Fredrickson explained. “Dress in layers and try to reduce the amount of skin that is exposed.”

Taking precautions for our outdoor pets, who are sensitive to the cold, is equally important. Cindy Johnson, Huron Humane Society president, offered some tips to keep your pets safe.

“I would suggest that anyone with a pet who lives outside make sure they have shelter, dry straw, a heated water bowl, and food,” Johnson said. “Best practice with current temperatures is to bring them into a heated space.”

Cats, on the other hand, can be quite stealthy when they are trying to find warmth. Leanne Bloom of the Second Chance Animal Shelter said. She also offered some advice to people who encounter any outdoor cats.

“Outdoor cats may seek warmth in car engines. Bang on the hood and check thoroughly before you turn your car on,” Bloom said.

If you are worried about cats out and about in your area, Bloom has some guidance for those who are attempting to provide them with shelter from the cold.

“For outside kitties, use an insulated, waterproof shelter with a small entrance. Make sure you elevate the shelter off the ground, if possible, with the entrance facing away from the wind,” Bloom explained.

When you insulate a shelter for a cat, be cautious with what material you use.

“Straw is the only thing it should be lined with. Blankets absorb moisture and can freeze,” Bloom said.

For many of us, our pets must go outside. There are some precautions you can take to keep your pet a little warmer.

“For pets who need to go outside, protection for their feet and a coat or sweater help keep them safe,” Johnson said. “Limit the time they spend outside. If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them, too.”