With upcoming temperatures expected to be near or at record lows, Bowling Green residents are encouraged
to read through the following tips to stay safe and protect their property.
Stay safe:
Be sure to check carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries regularly. If you are using space
heaters, be sure to use them on a hard, level surface away from flammables, and make sure that they are
plugged directly into an outlet-not a power strip. Do not use stoves, ovens or grills for heat. Check
your meter and areas around heating equipment and use a broom to remove any remaining snow and ice.
If you can, please stay indoors as frostbite can develop quickly in these extreme temperatures. If you
must venture out, be sure to bundle up and make sure your vehicle has at least a half tank of fuel.
Check on your neighbors, especially the elderly, and be sure to bring pets indoors.
Protect property:
Extreme cold temperatures cause concerns for frozen water pipes. Taking the time now to insulate or apply
heat tape to water pipes can help prevent this issue. Allowing a faucet to drip and keeping the doors
open to cabinets with pipes inside them can also help prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Be sure
to locate and label your water-shutoff valve. Should your pipes freeze and burst, shutting off the water
as quickly as possible will help minimize property damage.
Whether heating your home with electric or gas, your appliances will be working overtime to keep your
residence warm when temperatures drop. To avoid “sticker shock” on next month’s utility bill, limit the
use of space heaters when possible. Also, keep your thermostat at a consistent temperature and resist
the urge to crank it up. Add a layer of clothing or an extra blanket instead.
An energy audit can be a way to identify areas in your home where insulation and other energy saving
features can be applied. In the short term, you can seal air leaks where you feel cold drafts by hanging
blankets over windows and doors, installing DIY plastic insulation kits on your windows, or by placing
draft stoppers along the base of your doors. Despite best efforts, with such extreme cold temperatures,
utility bills will likely be higher next month. If you are having trouble paying your heating bill,
contact the Salvation Army at 419-352-5918.