• Protect people:
  • Keep a close eye on children and the elderly since they are particularly vulnerable to the cold and the least able to protect themselves.
  • Dress in layers of loose-fitting warm clothing. Wear hats, gloves, coat or a jacket if venturing outside.
  • Avoid overexertion due to heavy activity outdoors in the cold, which puts additional strain to your body.
• Protect pets:
  • Pets should remain inside. If you have any pets that must remain outdoors, place them in an enclosed shelter with the entrance facing away from the wind.
• Protect plants:
  • Potted plants should be brought inside the home or stored in a garage for warmth and protection from the wind.
  • For outdoor plants sensitive to the cold, place extra mulch and consider covering them with a cloth fabric to shield them from the wind.
  • Keep outdoor plants and trees watered.
  • Dry weather and wind create the perfect conditions for brush fires. If you live in or near heavily forested or undeveloped land, keep your property well-manicured and free of dry or dead vegetation.
• Protect the home:
  • Careful when occupying heaters in the home. Consider using electric space heater that are UL approved and that include safety features such as an automatic shut-off when tipped over.
  • Make sure all heating equipment is clean and dust-free.
  • Never place a space heater on top of furniture or near water.
  • Any heat source must be placed at least 3 feet away from furniture and curtains.
  • Children should never be left unattended near a space heater.
  • Have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the home that are functioning. Replace the batteries if necessary.
  • Always turn off heaters when leaving home.

Editor's note: MDFR personnel will be available to provide sound Friday, Feb. 13, 2015, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, please contact MDFR’s Public Affairs Bureau at 786-331-5200.