MACON, Ga. — With temperatures Wednesday morning dropping into the teens and expected wind chill to drop into the single digits, it's important to remember a few things in order to stay warm and safe.
Here are a few precautions you should take before Wednesday's big cool-down.
First and foremost, limit your time outdoors. Taking a break from your morning run and staying inside with a warm cup of coffee will be wise this week.
Also, for kids taking the bus to school, you definitely want to wait inside until you see the bus approach before going outside to board it.
This goes for your furry friends, too. If it's too cold for you to go outside, it most certainly is for your pets as well.
When venturing outdoors, it will be crucial to bundle up with layers of clothing. Your body naturally focuses on keeping your major organs warm, leaving body parts like your fingers and toes more sensitive to cold temperatures.
On top of a hoodie and a heavy coat, having a pair of mittens, a thick pair of socks or a beanie will go a long way. Putting a jacket on your pets will also be beneficial for them when going outside in the cold.
As far as your home goes, it is recommended to keep your thermostat set at 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pipe freezing is another concern during the ice-cold weather.
Any faucets exposed to cold temperatures should be properly insulated with materials you can find at home improvement stores. Opening cabinets and letting faucets drip are also effective measures to ensure no pipes freeze.
It is also recommended that your garden hose faucets should be disconnected as well, and a faucet cover can give extra protection.
Lastly, keeping a close eye on tire pressure, antifreeze and the heater in your car will be vital. Go ahead and make sure those are all up to par before you make your morning commute on Wednesday.