That includes caulking & weatherstripping doors & windows, being ready in case of power outages.
Frederick, Md. (KM) The chill in the air tells us that winter is not too far away. Potomac Edison is reminding customers it’ not too late to get their homes ready for the cold weather.
Spokesman Aaron Ruegg says one way is to check the insulation to make sure the heat stays in your home. “You can do that by checking your doors and windows, applying caulk or weather stripping to keep the cold air out,” he says.
When the winter season settles in, Ruegg says there are ways to make the cold weather stays outside. “Retain heat within in the home by closing drapes, blinds and garage doors, and keeping the heat in that way,” he says. “Make sure that your setting your thermostat at a temperature where you feel comfortable.”
Potomac Edison says it’s also a good idea to turn the thermostat down a bit if you’re going to work and not going to be home for a while.
During the winter, most people use space heaters and electric blankets. Ruegg says it’s important to be safe when using these devices. “Make sure that they’re never left unattended, or used while you’re sleeping,” he says. “Any heat sources are kept at least three feet away from any curtains, carpet or furniture that can catch on fire.”
In addition, Potomac Edison says residents should be prepared in case the power goes out on a winter’s day. “We also advise any customers to have a flashlight, a portable radio, extra batteries available in case their is a power outage,” says Ruegg. “Sometimes especially in cases of heavy snow, we do experience outages.”
He says customers should also have a first-aid kit on hand. And conserve heat as much as possible during a power outage by not opening the doors or windows unless absolutely necessary, says Ruegg.
By Kevin McManus