Dec. 17, 2021&mdash;
Want to stay warmer this winter if the power goes out? These tips from the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.netreturns.biz/healthinfo/bouncelink.aspx?shortcut=redcross">American Red Cross</a>, the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.netreturns.biz/healthinfo/bouncelink.aspx?shortcut=cdc">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a> and the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.netreturns.biz/healthinfo/bouncelink.aspx?shortcut=hud">U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development</a> (HUD) can help keep you safe in a cold-weather emergency. And, as an added bonus, they may even help lower your annual heating and cooling bills by as much as 30%.

Keep the cold out
<ul>
 <li>Remove window air conditioners.</li>
 <li>Install storm windows when the temps start falling. Don't have them? Cover the inside of windows with plastic instead. Look for a window insulation kit at your local hardware store.</li>
 <li>Add caulk or weather stripping around outside doors and windows. </li>
 <li>Keep furniture, drapes or carpeting away from baseboard heaters or radiators to keep the heat flowing.</li>
 <li>Own your home? Consider insulating your attic and walls.</li>
</ul>

Homes need checkups too

If you have a working fireplace, you should have your chimney or flue inspected every year, according to CDC. Another annual check: your heating system. A professional technician can find and repair air duct leaks and make sure your system is working smoothly.

Take time now to make sure you're up-to-date on DIY home maintenance too. For example:
<ul>
 <li>Install smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors if you don't have them. CDC recommends testing batteries monthly and replacing them twice a year.</li>
 <li>Change your furnace filter regularly. According to HUD, dirty filters can make your furnace less efficient. (Be safe and turn off the fuel supply and electricity first.)</li>
</ul>

Plan ahead for winter storms

Winter weather can be a hazard at home and on the road. Learn how to <a href="[BASEDOMAIN]/healthinfo/Story.aspx?StoryID=405a7c84-915a-42c8-b2b7-ce267870e47a">prepare your home and car</a> for winter's worst.

Winterproofing your home is a smart move

Winterproofing your home helps you be prepared for unexpected, cold-weather power outages. And it can help lower heating bills too.