Cold Weather Safety: 

When winter arrives, different heating methods may be used. Below is a list of things customers should keep in mind to stay safe while keeping warm. 

• Use space heaters with caution. Plug heaters directly into wall outlets and never use extension cords. Keep heaters away from curtains, furniture, paper, rugs and other combustible materials. Use only thermostatically controlled models and heat small areas only. 

• Never use a stove to heat your home. Open oven doors and lit burners are dangerous and ineffective as heating sources. 

• Do not use charcoal grills or propane heaters indoors. These devices emit deadly carbon monoxide and are not safe for indoor use. 

Conserving Power During Peak Hours: 

During cold weather heating systems tend to work harder. Peak hours are from 6-9 a.m. and 6-9 p.m. These times align with most people waking up, returning home from work and using heating, lighting and hot water at the same time. Below is a list of ways to conserve energy during those peak hours. 

• Lower the temperature of your heat by a few degrees during peak hours, then increase the temperature during non-peak hours. 

• Take advantage of natural light and the heat it brings during the day, helping to warm your home. 

• Turn off pool heaters during peak hours. 

• Avoid charging electric vehicles during peak hours. 

• Minimize showering or using large appliances that require lots of hot water, such as dishwasher and washing machines, during peak hours. 

Cold Weather Energy and Cost Savings: 

Increasing your use of heat when it is cold outside could cost you money. Below is a list of ways to save money during the winter. 

• Set your thermostat at 68 degrees Fahrenheit or lower and set fan to “auto.” 

• Increase the thermostat gradually to avoid activating auxiliary heat. 

• Open blinds during the day to let in warm sunshine. 

• Keep garage doors closed to maintain indoor heat. 

• Charge electric vehicles during non-peak hours. 

• Reduce use of hot water during peak hours (6-9 a.m. and 6-9 p.m.). 

Electric Heater Safety: 

When temperatures drop use of electric heaters, such as space heaters and electric blankets, increase. Below is a list of ways to remain safe while using these heaters to stay warm. 

• Keep space heaters off carpet and away from furniture. 

• Plug heaters and electric blankets directly into an outlet. Make sure to turn these devices off and unplug them when not in use. 

• Do not tuck in your electric blanket. 

Fireplace Safety: 

Fireplaces are another method to keeping your home warm during the winter. Below is a list of things to keep in mind before lighting a fire. 

• Have chimneys and vents cleaned and inspected regularly. 

• Burn only dry, seasoned wood. Never burn trash, cardboard or treated wood. 

• Use a sturdy screen or glass door to contain sparks and embers. 

• Keep furniture, decorations and other combustible items at least three feet away. 

• Never leave a fire unattended or burning overnight. 

• Make sure ashes are completely cool before disposal and store them in a metal container outside. 

Electric Vehicle Safety: 

Cool temperatures can impact the performance of batteries in electric vehicles (EVs). Below is a list of ways to protect your EVs from the cold. 

• Park indoors or in a covered space during the cold. 

• Use a magnetic EV charging inlet connector cover or bag to cover your outdoor charger. Remember when not using the charger connector, to always hang it up according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. 

• Warm up your EV before driving. 

• Check your tire pressure. 

Portable Generator Safety: 

Portable generators can be used to provide power in the event of an emergency. Below is a list of ways to safely use generators. 

• Make sure the generator is installed correctly. 

• Operate the generator outside of the home, including the garage, and place it at least 20 feet away with the exhaust pointed away from any building. 

• Turn it off and wait for it to cool down before refueling. Never refuel it while it’s running. 

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. 

• Ensure carbon monoxide detectors are installed throughout your home and functioning properly.