Oh, (cold) snap: Tips to keep you safe, warm during Florida freeze

ORLANDO, Fla. — Freezing temperatures are headed to Central Florida this week, and utility officials say now is the time to prepare.

The Orlando Utility Commission (OUC) offers cold weather guide tips to ensure people stay safe and warm as temperatures drop.

See what OUC says you need to know below:

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• Keep portable heaters at least 3 feet away from furniture, bedding, walls, clothing and other flammable items.

• An electric blanket can help keep you warm on a cold night, but follow the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure you turn it off and unplug it when it’s not in use. Never tuck an electric blanket in.

• Never use your stove or oven to heat your home. It can cause fires.

Read: Tips to keep your furry friends safe from the cold this winter

• Cover any exposed water pipes and leave pool pumps running to prevent freezing.

• Keep thermostats set at 68 degrees or lower to save energy.

• At night, close blinds or drapes to help keep cold air out. During the day, open blinds/drapes to let the warm sunshine in.

Read: Rooting for you: 9 tips to help your outdoor plants survive the cold

• If you have a fireplace, make sure your chimney flue is open before using it, and use a safety screen for protection from flames and embers.

• Never leave a fire or smoldering embers unattended.

• Place candles in sturdy containers or holders and keep them on solid surfaces where they cannot be knocked over.

Read: Rainy and cool Tuesday; big drop in temps coming for holiday weekend

• Lit candles should not be left unattended or placed near trees, draperies, and other flammable items.

• Keep candles and matches well out of children’s reach.

• Check smoke detector batteries regularly to make sure smoke detectors are working. Replace the batteries annually.

Video: Rainy and cool Tuesday; big drop in temps coming for holiday weekend There are big changes coming to the weather in Central Florida this week. (James Tutten, WFTV.com/WFTV)

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