IDEM recommends alternatives to turning up the heat in extreme cold

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) is challenging Hoosiers to engage in environmentally-responsible habits in 2009 by making easy, environmentally-friendly changes in their habits for the first 31 days of 2009.

Heating and electric bills can be reduced by weatherizing homes, and weatherization is a vital component of the Hoosier's Care initiative, a collaboration of five state agencies: IDEM, the Office of Energy and Defense, the Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, and Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority. These agencies have joined forces to educate Hoosiers about conservation of resources, including energy.

Instead of turning up the heat, which is costly and uses energy, it's not too late to consider implementing some of these energy-saving tips when weather is alarmingly cold:

• . Apply plastic wrapping to the insides of windows to create a barrier and provide a firmer seal against the elements.
• . Close all curtains and drapes. This extra layer of insulation will prevent cold from seeping through windows.
• . Place a rolled up towel or floor mat against the bottom of drafty doors.
• . Wear more layers of clothing or curl up under a blanket.
• . Idle a car to warm it up only when necessary, such as when defrosting windows, because cars warm up more quickly when they are being driven.
• . Keep tires properly inflated because pressure changes during colder temperatures. In addition, avoid hitting potholes and chunks of ice because these actions can affect tire pressure.
• . An attached garage door is another barrier that can protect and insulate your home. If you are able to fit your car in, the garage will keep the vehicle a few degrees warmer and save time from having to scrape windows.
• . Only run bathroom exhaust fans when necessary. They are vented to the outdoors and pump the heat of your house.
• . Be sure the chimney flue is closed when the fireplace is not in use.

For more energy conservation tips, visit www.idem.IN.gov and www.Hoosierscare.IN.gov.