Stay Safe During Florida’s Cold Snaps

While winter weather in South Florida is usually mild, occasional cold temperatures can impact your home and natural gas equipment. These simple steps can help you stay safe, comfortable and prepared.

Cold Weather Prep For Your Home

Use Natural Sunlight

Use Sunlight To Your Advantage

Open shades during the day to take advantage of the sun’s natural warmth.
Circulate Warm Air

Use Ceiling Fans Correctly

Set fans to rotate clockwise in winter to circulate warm air.
Maintain Heating Equipment

Maintain Heating Equipment

Check and replace furnace filters according to manufacturer instructions.
Prevent Frozen Pipes During Hard Freezes

Prevent Frozen Pipes During Hard Freezes

Insulate exposed plumbing, open kitchen and bathroom cabinets to allow warm air circulation and let faucets drip slowly.
Manage Your Thermostat Efficiently

Manage Your Thermostat Efficiently

Keep it at a steady, efficient temperature around 68 degrees when heating your home to reduce short cycling.
Keep Warm Air Where You Need It

Keep Warm Air Where You Need It

Keep doors and windows closed and close off unused rooms to help retain heat.

Natural Gas Safety

Use Approved Heating Equipment

Only use appliances designed for indoor heating, such as a furnace. Never use a gas range, oven, grill or outdoor heater to heat your home.

Natural Gas Safety

Use Space Heaters Safely

Never leave a space heater on while sleeping. Keep heaters away from curtains, furniture and other flammable materials.

Natural Gas Safety

Keep Vents and Air Intakes Clear

Never leave a space heater on while sleeping. Keep heaters away from curtains, furniture and other flammable materials.

Natural Gas Safety

Protect Your Natural Gas Meter

Keep the area around the meter clear of clutter and yard debris. Never strike or attempt to thaw a meter. Gently brush away ice or debris with a broom.

Natural Gas Safety

Use Generators Safely

Operate portable generators outdoors only, at least 20 feet from doors and windows, on a flat, dry surface. Never run portable generators indoors or while sleeping.

Natural Gas Safety

Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Place detectors on every level of your home and within 10 feet of sleeping areas. Test regularly and replace batteries as needed.

If You Smell Natural Gas

If you smell gas:

  • Leave the area immediately on foot
  • From a safe location, call 911
  • Then call Florida City Gas at 800.993.7546
  • Do not use lights, phones or anything that could create a spark

Help Managing Winter Bills

Colder weather can increase energy usage. Florida Public Utilities offers tools and assistance to help:

Weatherization Assistance
Weatherization Assistance The State of Florida’s Weatherization Assistance Program offers help to income-qualified Florida residents in reducing energy costs through weatherization.

Learn more at: https://www.floridajobs.org/community-planning-and-development/community-services/weatherization-assistance-program