(AP) -- People in the south aren't used to these frigid temperatures, and even those who move here may forget what to do in cold weather.
NewsChannel 15 checked with experts to bring you tips you may not think about:
- Start your car 5-10 minutes before you leave to get the fluids running
- Cold can zap your battery, so a battery charger or booster may come in handy
- Check your tire air pressure because it tends to go down when the temperature drops
- Throw gloves/hat/blanket/etc in trunk in case you get stranded
- If you don't have an ice scraper during a time of need, a frisbee or CD case can clear your windshield
- Computer experts say your LCD screen could freeze in frigid temperatures, so bring your laptop inside overnight
- GPS or satellite radio LCD screens can also freeze, but they should thaw out and function
- Inside your house, keep your thermostat set to at least 65 degrees
- If you're worried about your water pipes freezing, leave the cabinet doors open to help warm air circulate through (You can also buy foam to cover your outdoor pipes.)
- Cotton clothing absorbs perspiration and can make you cold (Certain fabrics are engineered to wick sweat from your skin. Several layers work best to keep you warm.)
- A warm jacket, hat and gloves are essential, and hand warmers can also come in handy
- Walk backwards in the wind to stay warmer and avoid windburn on your face.
(Copyright ©2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
