DANGEROUSLY COLD TONIGHT, HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

By early morning Friday the Plateau will go into a deep freeze mode.  Low temperatures overnight is forecast to drop to 8 degrees fahrenheit.  This will be dangerously cold and everyone should be prepared.  Even if your water pipes have never frozen up before, this might be the night it happens.  Run a pencil lead size stream from all your water faucets.   If your pipes freeze the ice will expand and burst the pipe.

If you have outdoor pets and they can’t be in your house, make provisions for them to be in a sheltered area such as a garage or outbuilding  with a floor heater and change their water often for it will freeze quickly.  Have a back-up heating source for your house should the power go off if you heat only with electricity. Make sure your vehicle is full of gas as a second backup for heat but ONLY as long as your vehicle is parked outside or in an open carport and not closed up in a garage. Also make certain your vehicle’s antifreeze is up to specs to handle the near zero temps.  Make sure all your devices such as cell phones are fully charged. Have plenty of water and food stored up. Do not go outside unless it is absolutely necessary. Wear layered clothing to keep warm.

WARMING CENTERS in Crossville:
THE BREAD OF LIFE MISSION ON 4TH IN CROSSVILLE

 

 

The following are tips published by VEC:

Additionally, here are some recommendations to help conserve energy during this time:
1. Seal the drafts and gaps in your home to keep warm air from escaping.
2. Use curtains and blinds at night to keep the warmth inside, but open them during the day to let the sun light in.
3. Adjust the thermostat setting to a temperature that is low but still comfortable.
4. Limit the use of space heaters.
5. Leave the oven door ajar after cooking a meal so the heat can escape into the room.
6. Wear warm clothing with multiple layers and use blankets to help stay warm.
7. Limit hot water use by taking shorter showers and by putting off non-essential chores.
8. Avoid using large appliances simultaneously.
9. Make sure your HVAC filter is clean.
10. Make sure the fire place flue is properly closed when not in use.

By following these steps, VEC members can not only keep warm during the upcoming winter conditions, but also reduce their energy consumption and potentially lower their heating bills.