The National Weather Service warns that much colder weather is on its way to Middle Tennessee.  Consider these cold weather preparations:

1. Open cabinet doors and turn water to a slow drip to prevent pipes from freezing.

2. Wrap your water heater.  Insulate it with a water heater blanket and add insulation around water pipes to prevent heat from escaping.

3. Use space heaters safely.  Every year over 100,000 house fires are reported as the result of using a portable space heater improperly.

• Your space heater should have a "UL Approved" label on it. If not, buy a new one.

• When buying a space heater, look for safety features such as automatic shut-off and heating element guards.

• Space heaters need space. They should be placed at least three feet away from anything that can burn.

• Never use an extension cord with a space heater. Plug the unit directly into a wall outlet.

• Turn off the heater when you go to sleep or leave the house. Never leave it unattended.

In case of a winter emergency or long-term power outage, NES urges everyone to follow these precautions:

• Keep a battery-powered radio or TV, flashlights and a supply of fresh batteries on hand.

• Know where to find extra blankets.

• Stock up on bottled drinking water and non-perishable food items.

• Never use charcoal grills or gas ovens to heat your home.  This could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Dress in warm, layered clothing.

• Check on elderly or disabled friends and neighbors.

• If your power is out and you cannot heat your home, you may want to stay with friends, relatives or in a hotel to be safe.