WINTER WEATHER

Here are some tips for protecting your family and home during winter weather:

Fire Safety – space heaters:

1. Inspect heater to make sure it is clean and operating properly.
2. Keep at least 3 feet from drapes, furniture or other flammable materials.
3. Put on level surface away from where people or pets can knock in over.
4. Plug into outlets with sufficient capacity and never use extension cords.
5. Never leave unattended or run while you are asleep. Turn off and unplug.
6. Keep electric heaters away from water. Never use near a sink or in a bathroom.
7. Never use or store flammable or combustible liquids near or in room with heater.

Fire Safety – other sources: Service heating systems and chimneys annually. Do not
allow combustibles of flammable materials within 3 feet of the heat. Dispose of ashes
safely in a metal container.

Family Safety: Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Check batteries every six
months.

Protect pipes from freezing:

1. Wrap outdoor faucets and pipes and exposed pipes in unheated areas or cover with
   plastic foam.
2. Maintain heat in house at least 55 degrees.
3. Make sure you know where the water shut‐off valve is located and how to use it.
4. Drain pipes if you will be out‐of‐town by turning off water at shut‐off valve while faucets are running. Make sure to turn the faucets off after draining. Contact your electric or gas utility for instructions on protecting your water heater.
5. During periods of freezing weather, let indoor faucets drip and open cabinets under sinks in kitchen and bathroom to allow heated air circulation.
6. Consider installing an automatic water shut‐off system that senses increased flow.
7. Make sure windows and doors are well sealed.
8. Cover vents around foundation.
9. Protect outdoor electrical pumps.
10. If you suspect frozen pipes, shut off water source and call a plumber. If the pipe hasn’t burst, thaw with an electric heating pad, hair dryer, or towel soaked in hot water. Apply heat slowly, moving toward the coldest spot. Never concentrate the heat in one spot. Never use a blow‐torch or open‐flame device.