Local temperatures are expected to dip below freezing in the coming days as a cold front makes it way across the state.

According to the National Weather Service forecast, temperatures will be around 57 today, with west winds between 10 and 15 mph, but expect gusts as high as 20 mph.

Temperatures will dip to 35 with winds between 5 and 10 mph.

On Wednesday, the high will be near 59 and the wins will continue at 5 and 10 mph.

Wednesday temperatures are expected to drop to 28.

Thursday will be sunny and the high will increase to 63 and the winds are expected to die down.

Low will be around 31 on Thursday night.

Friday’s high will be 64 with a low of 33.

Saturday will be sunny with a high near 66 and low of 38.

When winter temperatures drop below normal, staying warm and safe can become a challenge.

Residents are reminded to take precautions to protect life and property during the winter weather, including checking on the elderly, taking care of pets and livestock, protecting plants and exposed plumbing.

The following are some tips to follow when preparing for the freezing temperatures.

• Protect people. Keep warm and stay inside if possible. If one must go out, dress in layers, wear hats, gloves and an appropriate coat.

• Observe heater safety. Never place a space heather on top of furniture or near water. Keep heat sources at least 3 feet from furniture and drapes. Never leave children unattended near a space heater.

• Protect pets. Bring pets inside, and move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas. Keep adequate food and water available.

• Protect pipes. Disconnect outdoor hoses, drain and store in protected place. Wrap exposed faucets and pipes – including those outside the house or in unheated crawl spaces, attics, garages and other areas.

• Protect plants. Bring potted plants inside or store in garage near interior wall to provide extra warmth and protection from wind.

• For cold-sensitive outdoor plants, put down extra mulch and consider covering with a cloth fabric of some kind to shield the plants from wind and frost.

• Protect from carbon monoxide poisoning. Install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector and never use generators, grills, camp stoves or similar devices indoors.

• Prepare vehicles. It is recommended that cars be serviced and antifreeze added as needed.