With forecasters predicting unusually cold weather through at least the middle of this month, Alliant Energy is offering tips to stay warm and be safe.
Those include ensuring that space heaters are properly vented and spaced at least three feet from other objects, and turned off when sleeping or away. If you have a fireplace, make sure a sturdy screen is used. Make sure the furnace and water heater are in good working order, and check outside vents for any blockage, including from ice that forms from condensation. That’s important to prevent malfunction or a buildup of carbon monoxide. That deadly gas can also result from warming up a vehicle or running a portable generator in the garage, or using any stove indoors for heat. And since you can’t see or smell it, carbon monoxide detectors should be placed on every floor and checked periodically to make sure they’re working.
Severe winter weather can cause power line problems, and Alliant said they’ve taken steps to ensure their gas and electrical distribution systems are up to the challenge. But the worst storms will still be able to down power lines, and if you know of one, dial 1-800-ALLIANT and they’ll send a crew as soon as possible.
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