13 Tips to Stay Safe in Freezing Temperatures

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<p class="p1">The cold weather has struck Illinois. With temperatures predicted to go into the negatives this week, we need to understand that it isn't just a cold winter anymore, it's dangerous.

<p class="p1">Here are some tips for your home, vehicle and body to stay safe in this cold weather.

<p class="p1"><strong>Home</strong>

<p class="p2"><em>Never turn your heat off.</em>

<p class="p2">Electricity bills may be higher, but it will be worth it. To help with electricity costs, turn down your thermostat 5 degrees while you are gone and only have it at a comfortable living temperature while you are at home.

<p class="p2"><em>Invest in a gas heater.</em>

<p class="p2">At home, I have a heater that runs off propane. Only operate this while at home, but it can help in the sections of your home that doesn't seem to get warm. Also, it's handy to have if the power goes out.

<p class="p2"><em>Drip all faucets in the home.</em>

<p class="p2">Have you ever seen a house where pipes have busted? Trust me, you don't want to. By having your faucets drip while the temperature is below freezing are less prone to bust. Cost of a water bill may come to mind, but a few extra dollars could save you thousands in repairs.

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<p class="p2"><em>Bring outside pets inside.</em>

<p class="p2">If your pet is used to being outside, don't bring them in for the entire winter. Only when it is below freezing. If there is absolutely no room for your animals inside, make sure there is an enclosed area, like a porch that they can get into and place a heater, or like my cats like to use it, a "tanning bed" for them. 

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<p class="p3"><strong>Vehicle</strong>

<p class="p2"><em>Put antifreeze in your car.</em>

<p class="p2">There is special windshield wiper fluid that contains antifreeze that helps thaw out ice faster.

<p class="p2"><em>Keep windshield wipers up.</em>

<p class="p2">Keeping the windshield wipers in their standard position on the windshield can literally freeze them in place. It's important, especially if snow and ice are involved, that they are functioning. Positioning them upright before you go inside for the night will prevent this.  

<p class="p2"><em>Don't let your vehicle idle for too long.</em>

<p class="p2">The longest you should have your vehicle idle in freezing temperatures is 15 minutes. If possible, drive around the block or up and down your driveway to get your vehicle to warm up faster.

<p class="p2"><em>Always keep a blanket and water in your car.</em>

<p class="p2">The unexpected can happen at any time. In case something happens to your car, whether it breaks down or you have been in an accident, having a blanket to keep you warm and water will be nice to have until help arrives.

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<p class="p3"><strong>Body</strong>

<p class="p2"><em>Dress in layers.</em>

<p class="p2">One heavy sweater isn't enough to keep you warm. When the temperatures are in the negatives, I suggest 4 layers, cami or tank top, T-shirt or long-sleeve T-shirt, sweater or hoodie, coat. Also with pants, wear a pair of leggings or thermo underwear underneath your jeans.

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<p class="p2"><em>If walking is unavoidable, wear hoods and scarves.</em>

<p class="p2">A hood, especially over a sock cap, will keep your head warm, while a scarf, mostly used as fashion statements or to keep your neck warm, can cover your face to keep it out of some harsh winds or falling snow and ice. Wool or cloth circle or infinity scarves work best.

<p class="p2"><em>Wear water resistant boots.</em>

<p class="p2">Snow and ice is still water. Sometimes, stepping in snow is unavoidable. By having water resistant shoes, the snow cannot reach your feet. Also, snow boots usually have a specifically designed bottom to help you walk on ice easier.

<p class="p2"><em>Have extra gloves, ear muffs and scarves everywhere you go.</em>

<p class="p2">I keep a pair of gloves and ear muffs in all my jackets and coats. I also keep a set in my car.

<p class="p2"><em>Drink hot beverages, but don't forget water.</em>

<p class="p2">Yes,a hot beverage like coffee, tea, hot chocolate or cider helps get you warm, but you don't want to become dehydrated either. 

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<p class="p1"><strong><em>Did I miss something? If you know of a tip to stay safe in freezing conditions, tweet me <a href="https://twitter.com/LindseyRaeV" target="_blank">@LindseyRaeV</a> or email me at lvaughn@annanews.com.</em></strong>



Bring outside pets inside



Dress in layers



Always keep a blanket and water in your car



Drip all faucets in the home



Drink hot beverages, but don't forget water


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