Is Your Home Winter Weather Prepared?

Although it has been slightly warm since the beginning of this winter season, there are still occasions where we may see some winter weather. Winter weather can include freezing temperatures, extreme wind chill, snow, and even freezing rain or sleet. Many of these conditions can create damaging fallen trees, unsafe road conditions, and even power outages for your home. This is why it’s important to prepare you and your home for the coldest months. Here are some great ways to prepare your home for winter weather:
  1. Make a disaster plan for you and your family, to know what to do when extreme winter weather occurs.
  2. Have an emergency kit on hand - This kit can include things like battery powered flashlights, additional batteries, winter-ready clothes and hats, non-perishable foods and snacks, portable chargers for phones, windshield scrapers, and much more!
  3. Make sure to waterproof your home! - Be prepared to find any crack to seal with caulk, check on insulation, and fix any leaks in the roof.
  4. For fireplace owners, make sure to have it inspected yearly. Contact your local fire department on recommendations for inspectors.
  5. Make sure to have on hand battery powered smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, especially for homes with fireplaces, kerosene heaters, or wood burning stoves used in emergency situations. 
  6. Have a thermometer on hand in your house to check for temperature drops. This is a must have for elderly populations.
  7. Also make sure your pets are indoors to keep them warm too!

Winter weather may seem menial but it’s always something to prepare for. Keep yourself safe and warm for the holidays!

References:

“Preparing for a Winter Storm” - Natural Disasters and Severe Weather - Center for Disease Control and Prevention