Chill is coming: Are you winterized?

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Story Published: Dec 11, 2008 at 9:00 AM PST

By KATU Web Staff

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PORTLAND, Ore. - We could see the coldest temperatures of the season later this week and now is as good a time as any to make sure the drop in temperature does not leave you with a sky-high energy bill or busted lines on your recreational vehicles.

Winterize Your Home

Check all the weather stripping around your doors. If you can feel a draft, you need to do some work.
Check your windows for drafts as well. Correcting the problem can be as simple as making sure they are locked so they have a tighter seal.
Even if you don't have kids, put child safety plugs in all your outlets to prevent heat from escaping. Those small leaks can add up.
Check your fireplace to see if the damper is open. Close it if you're not using the fireplace for heating your home. Of course, if you build a fire make sure to keep the damper open until the fire and all of the embers are completely out.
Check under your sink. It's important to cover and seal any holes on exterior walls.
Allow a small drip in your sinks to avoid frozen pipes.
Put covers on your outside faucets to keep them from the elements.
Cover foundation vents.
Keep your garage door closed as much as possible. Just that little bit can help insulate your home from the cold.

Winterize Your RV

Step-by-Step RV winterizing checklist
Motorhome Magazine: It's wise to winterize
Video instructions
- Winterization walk-through

Winterize Your Boat

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