Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Wisconsin requires a smoke alarm on each floor level. A smoke alarm should also be installed next to your furnace.
Make sure that your furnace is working properly. Inspect furnace flues, pipes, and chimneys. Contact Madison Gas and Electric, Alliant Energy, or a heating contractor if you have questions. In homes with gas furnaces, carbon monoxide detectors are required.
Change filters at the beginning of the heating season. Then, check them monthly to make sure there is adequate air flow.
If you have to leave your home empty for several days, keep the thermostat set at 55 degrees or higher. Have a friend check your house to make sure it is warm enough to keep your pipes from freezing. If you have to leave your home empty for several days, keep the thermostat set at 55 degrees or higher.
If you believe your pipes have frozen, turn off the water at the main valve to your home and call a plumber.
Make sure the water line to outside faucets is off, the hoses disconnected, and the line drained.