Temperatures are expected to dip below zero throughout Colorado this weekend into early next week, according to the National Weather Service in Boulder.

It’s important to know how to prepare for these extreme weather conditions, cut costs on utilities if possible and learn safety precautions in case of emergency.

Tips for heating safety

In order to stay warm indoors, it is best to keep your thermostat set between 68 and 72 degrees. If this is too cold, then break out the winter clothing and wear layers. 

1. Be mindful of space heaters

Make sure the heater’s cord is undamaged and plug directly into an outlet instead of an extension cord. Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from flammable objects like curtains and furniture. Never leave space heaters unattended. 

2. Never heat with oven

Not only is this inefficient, heating your home with an oven can increase the risk for carbon monoxide poisoning and pose a fire hazard. Propane-powered heaters also generate these risks.

3. Have chimney inspected

If you have a chimney, it is good to get it inspected before freezing temperatures in order to ensure the chimney is functioning properly. Possible issues with ventilation, structural damage, buildup and blockages can increase the risk for carbon monoxide and fires.

4. Take precautions with natural gas

If your home has natural gas, be sure to clear snow from your gas meter or outside appliance vents gently by hand and keep a path to the meter clear. This helps prevent buildup of pressure in the line or natural gas inside the home. It also provides access to the gas meter in case of emergency. If your gas meter has been damaged by snow or falling ice, get a safe distance away and call 911 and report it to your energy provider. Never try to relight a gas appliance, call your energy company to check the meter, lines and appliances.

How to prevent frozen pipes

One of the biggest things to keep in mind during freezing temperatures is the potential for frozen pipes, and if not handled properly, burst pipes.

1. Locate water shut-off valve

To minimize damage if a pipe breaks, you’ll need to shut off your water. 

2. Insulate exterior pipes

Exterior pipes such as those in an unheated basement are vulnerable to the cold and are best insulated to mitigate freezing. 

3. Keep cabinet doors to sink open

Keeping access doors open to pipes makes them warmer from household air.

4. Leave farthest faucet dripping

Leaving all faucets in your home dripping is unnecessary, but the one farthest from your water source is helpful. This is a very slow drip, not a steady stream.

What to do with frozen pipes

Once you determine a pipe is frozen, do not hesitate to take action. Go through these steps immediately, and if you have issues, call a plumber for help.

1. Thaw the pipe

Make sure the water is shut off first, and then begin to thaw the pipe with a hair dryer. Never use a blow torch or another open-flame device. Warm the pipe slowly, as warming too fast can cause breaking.

2. Call plumber if damaged or burst

If you have no luck with thawing methods after turning the water back on, notice damage or find yourself with a burst pipe, call a plumber immediately. 

How to conserve heat and energy

If you’re looking to conserve some energy during the cold weather, check out these tips and tricks.

1. Weatherstrip doors and windows

This helps prevent drafts and any possible cold air that could come inside. If you don’t have weatherstripping, the next best thing is to use rolled towels to block the cold.

2. Turn thermostat down periodically

Though the amount of energy conservation is up for debate, setting your thermostat a few degrees lower at night or when you are away from home may help lessen energy costs. Xcel Energy says to keep thermostats at 68 or below when the temperature is extremely cold.

3. Lower water heater setting

If your water heater setting is above 120 degrees, consider turning it down to reduce energy.

4. The power of sunlight

Open your blinds or curtains during the day to take advantage of the heat from direct sunlight to warm your home. Close them again at night to keep the heat in.

5. Ceiling fans can be your friend

Running a ceiling fan in a clockwise direction can push warmer air down from the ceiling, making your home warmer and more comfortable.

6. Open door policy

Keeping the interior doors of your home open can help the air circulate and maintain a more consistent heat level.

Winter safety tips

1. Avoid downed power lines

If you see a power line on or near the ground, always assume it’s a live wire and extremely dangerous. Don’t touch it or move it. Instead, leave the immediate area and report it. 

2. Make a home emergency kit

Gather items that will be essential in the event of a power outage. These items include:

• Battery-powered radio or television
• Flashlights
• Batteries
• Back up phone chargers
• A phone that does not require electricity
• Non-electric alarm clock
• Bottled water and nonperishable food
• Manual can opener
• First aid kit
• Extension cords (for partial outages)
• Manufacturer’s instructions on how to manually open power-operated doors (e.g., garage doors)
• Contact information for your energy provider

3. Have working detectors

Always ensure you have functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the home. Check that the batteries are working. It’s important to have working detectors on every floor of the home and in each bedroom.

Information from Denver Water, Black Hills Energy, Xcel Energy and the Colorado Springs Fire Department was used for this report.