Massive US winter storm has left more than a dozen dead and millions without power. Here are 10 things to avoid doing when freezing temps hit.

Taylor ArdreyDec 25, 2022, 03:12 IST

A man braves sub zero temperatures with heavy winds as he uses a snowblower Friday, Dec. 23, 2022, in Fox Point, Wis. Winter weather is blanketing the U.S. as a massive storm sent temperatures crashing and created whiteout conditions.(AP Photo/Morry Gash)

The winter blast sweeping the US has resulted in multiple deaths and more than one million without power.
Flights are delayed and energy companies are initiating rolling blackouts and asking customers to cut back on usage.

Thousands of flight delays and cancellations have swept the US this holiday weekend, per FlightAware. Airports in Denver, Seattle, and Atlanta lead the US in cancellations, according to FlightAware data.

The National Weather Service has also reported "potentially life-threatening" conditions across the country as energy companies signal a strain on the grid.

Here are 10 things you should avoid during freezing temperatures to stay safe:

Avoid the airport and potential flight delays or cancellations by checking with your airline for a waiver.

Alaska Airlines plane in heavy snow in Seattle on December 20, 2022.Joe Nicholson/Alaska Airlines

Don't drive unless necessary to avoid slippery roads. If you decide to drive, slow down.

Drivers make their way along a road during a winter storm Sunday, Feb. 14, 2021, in Oklahoma City.Sue Ogrocki/AP

Avoid using a gas oven to heat your home.

Aleš Kocjančič

Don't use gasoline to light the fireplace, use wood instead.

Carol A Hudson/Getty Images

Keep salt out of your furry friend's paws and avoid walking them for too long. Change water in their bowl, if frozen.

Dog sitting in front of bed at homeGetty Images

Don't wash your car to avoid your doors from freezing shut.

A car.Getty Images

Don't forget to spray key holes to prevent them from freezing and locking you out.

Stock photo of car keys inside side door key hole.Getty

Amid frigid temperatures, avoid turning on your sprinklers to prevent damage.

A backyard irrigation sprinkler waters a residential property in Encinitas, CaliforniaThomson Reuters

Avoid leaving your garage door open to conserve heat and protect your pipes.

Stock photo of home blanketed with snow.Getty

Don't bring your grills and generators inside to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

Cleaning your grill grates every time you grill will ensure a clean cooking surface.Imagesines/Getty Images

Nearly 2,000 flights have been canceled so far this holiday weekend due to severe weather. Here are the 5 cities most plagued with delays and cancellations at the airport.

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