Cold yet?

Wait until the end of the week. The icy blast will intensify and our need to take care of ourselves, our homes, our pets and maybe even our neighbors will intensify.

Many of us are fortunate enough to be in warm, well-insulated homes in which there is little worry we will need to do more than perhaps put on an extra sweater and slippers. Even in those cozy homes it will be important to remember things like keeping an eye on how long pets spend outdoors and perhaps leaving the faucets on a slow drip.

But in other homes, things may be less comfortable. In fact, it may be chilly enough that some resort to non-conventional heat sources and must be vigilant against the risk of fire. Pipes could burst; animals may be harder to accommodate indoors. … In some homes, things will be harder.

We’ve got to look out for one another over the next several days, folks. Check in on elderly or isolated friends, loved ones and neighbors. Ask if they need a hand — or a place to stay.

Make sure they are properly using heat sources that could lead to dangers such as carbon monoxide poisoning or fire.

Those with vehicles better equipped for winter driving should consider whether they can offer to run to the grocery store for others or pick up other necessities. (Bottled water is a big deal in a house where the pipes have stopped flowing).

It will be those little gestures that get some of us through this frigid spell.

Take care of one another, stay warm if you can and remember, this, too, shall pass.