Chilliest Morning Of The Year Coming Up
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) - If you thought the last couple of mornings have been on the chilly side, you haven't seen anything yet.
Wednesday night has the potential to be the coldest night of the winter so far and parts of Broward and Miami-Dade will likely drop into the upper 30s by morning, CBS4 Chief Meteorologist Craig Setzer says.
The good news for people who are not fans of the cold weather is that the wind should be light so wind chill will not be as big of an issue.
While Thursday's temperatures will again struggle to reach the 60s, the threat for frost is very low. However, to be on the safe side, prepare now by utilizing the "Four P's" of cold weather safety:
- Protect People: Pay careful attention to children and the elderly. They are especially vulnerable to the cold and the least able to protect themselves. Dress in layers and wear a hat that covers your ears when you are outdoors.
- Protect Plants: Bring potted plants indoors. Keep outdoor plants and trees watered.
- Protect Pets: Bring all pets indoors. Pets that must be left outside should have an enclosed shelter with the entrance facing away from the wind.
- Protect Against Fires In The Home: Take the time to prepare and inspect heating equipment before using. According to the National Fire Protection Association, incorrect use of heating equipment is the leading cause of home fires.
When protecting against fires in the home, here are some important safety tips:
- Choose electric space heaters and use only those that are UL approved. Look for models that include safety features such as an automatic shut-off when tipped over.
- Avoid the use of extension cords with space heaters, but if you must use one, make sure it is the proper size and length. Never run cords under rugs or carpets.
- Keep your heater at least three feet away from furniture, curtains and other flammable items.
- Install recommended smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace batteries regularly.
- Never use charcoal or other fuel-burning devices indoors, such as grills that produce carbon monoxide.
- Make sure all equipment is clean and dust-free.
- Keep a close eye on children and pets whenever a space heater is being used.
- Always turn off heaters when leaving home.
In Broward County, law enforcement and members of a task force will be inviting the homeless to spend the night in a shelter.
Steven Leo went on Tuesday and plans to go again Wednesday night.
"I was tapped out freezing," said Leo.
The non-profit Broward Partnership for the homeless is also providing 50 mats.
South Florida will be back into the 70s as we head into the weekend. There's also no rain is in sight through the President's Day holiday on Monday.
