Keeping warm, keeping safe

Published 12:00 am Sunday, February 14, 2016

Many times, when we think or hear of wintery weather, those thoughts likely are about snow. But cold temperatures, like the ones we have seen since Friday can be more dangerous in some cases.

While the snow can certainly be severe and cause problems, the frigid temperatures can be serious for humans and pets alike.

Here are some tips from the Red Cross to help stay warm and safe.

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• Layer up! Wear layers of lightweight clothing to stay warm. Gloves and a hat will help prevent losing your body heat.

• Don’t forget your furry friends. Bring pets indoors. If they can’t come inside, make sure they have enough shelter to keep them warm and that they can get to unfrozen water.

• Remember the 3-foot rule. If you are using a space heater, place it on a level, hard surface and keep anything flammable at least three feet away ­— things such as paper, clothing, bedding, curtains or rugs.

• Don’t catch on fire! If you are using a fireplace, use a glass or metal fire screen large enough to catch sparks and rolling logs.

• Protect your pipes. Running water, even at a trickle, to help prevent your pipes from freezing. Open the kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.

• Better be safe than sorry. Keep the thermostat at the same temperature day and night. Your heating bill may be a little higher, but you could avoid a more costly repair job if your pipes freeze and burst.

• The kitchen is for cooking. Never use a stove or oven to heat your home.

• Use generators outside. Never operate a generator inside the home, including in the basement or garage.

Making use of these safety tips may ultimately not only keep you warm while the frigid temperatures are in the region, but can also keep you and your family safe.