Utahns' prep their homes for the cold

SALT LAKE CITY — With lower temperatures ahead, some Utahns are bracing for the bitter cold. That goes for both people and Utah businesses alike. And you may want to copy what they're doing, it may help you save money.

Keeping the fireplace on, and the thermostat high. As temperatures drop over the next few days, it'll be more tempting than ever.

"As you get older, it's even worse," said Vicki Finocchio, West Valley City resident. Finocchio said over the years, she's done a lot to make her home easier to heat. And cut costs on her utility bills. "I have done the weather stripping on the doors, and around the windows. And any place that I can find that leaks, it's either caulked or sealed," Finocchio said. Both can be found on a list of suggestions from Rocky Mountain Power to help you use less energy and save money. "It can really save people $5 to $10 on their bill monthly," said Jona Whitesides, Rocky Mountain Power Spokesperson. On the sub-freezing days, Rocky Mountain Power makes adjustments too, like skipping pre-scheduled electric line work, to avoid putting undo strain on the grid. "To make sure we don't have any portion of the system down during a time when there may be an increased demand for electricity," Whitesides said. That demand is sure to go up, but with the right tweaks in your home, your bill doesn't have to. "It all contributes, it all adds up," Finocchio said.

If you want to see the full list of recommendations to better heat your house and lower your bill see the Rocky Mountain Power website.

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