With temperatures plummeting to near zero the next few days in Greater Nashua, safety in these bitter-cold conditions must be top of mind.

Factoring in wind chill, temperatures will hover around the negative 5- to 10-degree below zero mark at night, making any long exposure to the elements dangerous.

Weather.gov offers these safety tips for when temperatures hit single digits and below:

DRESSING WARM

• Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing.

• Wear a hat. Try to stay dry and out of the wind.

• Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold.

• Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves.

PETS

• Bring pets inside.

• Provide shelter and fresh water.

• Keep salt away from paws.

Vehicle Preparation

• Check you battery.

• Check your fluids (coolant, wiper fluid, oil, etc.).

• Check your tires.

• Have jumper cables.

• Pack a blanket.

WATER PIPES

To keep pipes from freezing on an outside wall:

• Let hot and cold water trickle or drip at night from a faucet.

• Open cabinet doors to allow more heat to get to un-insulated pipes under a sink or near an outer wall.

• Make sure heat is left on and set no lower than 55 degrees.

• If you plan to be away, have someone check your house daily to make sure the heat is still on.