CLEVELAND — The first freeze of the season is expected across much of the Midwest tonight.
The National Weather Service in Cleveland issued a freeze warning to be in effect between 3am – 9am Tuesday, as temperatures are expected dip to the low 30s.
A freeze warning is issued when sub-freezing temperatures are forecast to threaten outdoor plants. Those with agricultural interests are advised to harvest or protect tender vegetation. Potted plants outdoors should be covered or brought inside.
Is your home ready?
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind with the first freeze.
- Outdoor plumbing is prone to freezing when the temperature drops. Disconnect any garden hoses and insulate the spigot using towels or rags.
- Ensure that your furnace is in safe working order and with a clean air filter. If you’re not sure, contact a certified technician.
- Be sure that you have functioning smoke/fire and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home installed with fresh batteries. Remember, carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly.
- Check that baseboard heaters are free from anything flammable.
- Take care when setting up space heaters. Most require a minimum distance of 3 feet in all directions clear from children, pets, or anything else that could catch fire. Check the manufacturer instructions.
- Before using your fireplace, check that your chimney flue has not become blocked. It should also be cleaned and inspected every year or two. Ignoring your fireplace could lead to a chimney or house fire from creosote build-up. Inspections can also reveal dangerous structural or other issues with your fireplace.