WISCONSIN (CBS 58) -- Just like the twelve days of Christmas, We Energies has released 12 tips to lower your energy bill this winter and keep your house safe.

1. Peek inside your oven using the light instead of opening the door which causes energy use and increases cooking time.
2. Look for broken or frayed wires, and broken or loose connections in lights to avoid potential fires or shocks. If you find problems, replace and repair.
3. Remove snow and ice from meters because it can stress meter piping, causing a natural gas leak.
4. Lower your thermostat seven to 10 degrees from the normal setting, especially when you are asleep or away from home more than 8 hours, to save as much as 10 percent a year on heating costs.
5. Clean or replace your air filters in your heating system.
6. Use a space heater safely by keeping wrapped gifts, tissue paper and draperies at least six feet away to reduce a fire risk.
7. Using a small pan or pot on a large burner can waste more than 40 percent of the heat being produced.
8. If you use glass or ceramic pans for baking, you can turn down the oven temperature by 25 degrees and your dish will cook just as quickly.
9. As long as the oven door remains closed, enough heat will be stored inside to finish cooking your meal for the last few minutes.
10. Clear icicles above gas meter. They can fall and damage meter piping. Dripping water can also re-freeze, causing extra weight to build up on the meter.
11. Use weatherstripping and caulk to seal gaps around windows, doors and siding, which will improve your energy efficiency.
12.  Check that the flame is blue on your natural gas range to safely prepare your holiday dishes. Make sure your range top is clean as well.