Protect Pets

When cold weather is in the forecast, be sure to bring outdoor pets inside or give them a warm shelter to stay in.

STAYING INFORMED

Be sure to keep up with a reliable weather source to properly plan for the days ahead. Wind chill is just as important as temperature!

Protect Family

Remember to dress in layers and wear a hat and gloves. It is important to try to stay out of the wind and to stay dry.

Protect Pipes

Cover pipes and allow outdoor faucets to slowly drip to prevent them from freezing and breaking.

Practice Fire Safety

Use safe heating sources indoors. Do not use fuel-burning devices such as grills; they release carbon monoxide, which is a deadly gas. Also, make sure to use space heaters according to their instructions and be attentive to open flames.

Protect Plants

Cover cold sensitive plants to protect them from the dangerous temperatures.

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Getting Your Home Ready

1. Insulation and Draft Protection

• Seal Drafts: Use weatherstripping, caulk, or draft stoppers on doors and windows to prevent cold air from seeping in.

• Insulate Attics and Walls: Add insulation to your attic, walls, and crawl spaces to retain heat.

• Install or Replace Storm Doors/Windows: These provide an extra barrier against cold air.

• Check Fireplace Dampers: Ensure the damper is closed when the fireplace isn’t in use to keep warm air inside.

2. Pipe Protection

• Insulate Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes in foam or heat tape, especially in basements, attics, and exterior walls.

• Let Faucets Drip: During freezing temperatures, keep faucets dripping slightly to prevent pipes from freezing.

• Shut Off Outdoor Water: Disconnect hoses and shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets. Drain any remaining water to prevent freezing.

3. Heating System Maintenance

Inspect and Service Heating Systems:

• Get your furnace or HVAC system inspected by a professional (if possible).

• Replace air filters to improve efficiency and air quality.

Chimney and Fireplace:

• Have your chimney cleaned to remove soot and debris.

• Inspect for cracks or leaks that could let in cold air.

Alternative Heat Sources:

• Test space heaters and ensure they meet safety standards.

4. Roof and Gutters

Inspect Your Roof:

• Check for loose or missing shingles and repair them to prevent leaks.

• Add insulation to the attic to prevent ice dams from forming.

Clean Gutters:

• Remove leaves and debris to allow proper drainage. This helps prevent ice buildup and damage to your home’s foundation.

5. Windows and Doors

• Install Insulated Curtains: Use thick or thermal curtains to keep warmth in and block cold drafts.

• Apply Window Film: Install heat-shrink window film to insulate windows and reduce heat loss.

• Fix or Replace Caulking: Check for cracks in caulking around windows and doors and reseal as needed.

6. Emergency Power Backup

• Install a Generator: Consider a backup generator to keep essential systems running during power outages.

• Surge Protectors: Use surge protectors to prevent damage to electronics when power returns.

7. Prevent Ice Damage

• De-Ice Pathways: Use salt, sand, or pet-safe de-icer on walkways and driveways.

• Trim Tree Branches: Remove overhanging or dead branches that could break under the weight of snow or ice.

8. Energy Efficiency Upgrades

• Programmable Thermostats: Install a thermostat that adjusts temperature based on your schedule to save energy.

• Add Door Sweeps: Attach door sweeps to the bottom of exterior doors to block drafts.

• Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows: If possible, replace older windows with double- or triple-pane glass.

9. Safety Measures

• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:

• Test and replace batteries in detectors.

• Install additional detectors near bedrooms and furnaces.

• Emergency Kit:

• Keep flashlights, batteries, blankets, and a first-aid kit handy for power outages.

• Fireplace Safety:

• Use a fire-resistant hearth rug and store firewood safely away from the house.

10. Exterior Preparations

• Inspect Foundation and Siding:

• Look for cracks or gaps that could let in cold air or pests.

• Close Crawl Space Vents: Shut or insulate vents to prevent cold air from entering your home.

• Check Exterior Doors: Ensure all doors close tightly and consider adding storm doors for extra insulation.

Bonus Tip: Homeowner Insurance Check

Review your homeowner’s insurance to ensure it covers winter-related damage like burst pipes or roof collapse.

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Before the Storm

1. Stay Informed

• Monitor weather updates via TV, radio, or apps.

• Sign up for emergency text alerts in your area.

2. Prepare Your Home

• Seal windows and doors with weatherstripping or blankets to keep drafts out.

• Wrap exposed pipes with towels or foam pipe insulation to prevent freezing.

• Let faucets drip slightly to keep water flowing in extreme cold.

3. Stock Up on Essentials

• Food and Water: 2 days’ worth of non-perishable food and 1 gallon of water per person per day.

• Medicine: Refill prescriptions and keep first-aid kits handy.

• Batteries and Power Banks: Ensure devices are fully charged and have backups.

4. Plan for Power Outages

• Have flashlights, lanterns, and backup chargers ready.

• Use extra blankets and wear warm clothing to conserve heat if power is lost.

5. Prepare Your Vehicle

• Keep an emergency kit in your car: blankets, flashlight, snacks, water, and a phone charger.

• Top off your gas tank and check antifreeze levels.

• Use winter-grade windshield washer fluid.

6. Community Planning

• Check on neighbors and offer to share supplies or resources.

• Create a list of local emergency shelters or warming stations.

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During the Storm

1. Stay Indoors

• Avoid unnecessary travel. Roads may be dangerous due to ice and limited clearing.

2. Stay Warm Safely

• Layer clothing and use extra blankets.

• Avoid using ovens or grills for heating to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Use space heaters with caution: keep them away from flammable objects and never leave them unattended.

3. Conserve Heat

• Close off unused rooms to concentrate heat in smaller spaces.

• Use towels or blankets to block drafts under doors.

4. Prevent Frozen Pipes

• Keep faucets dripping to maintain water flow.

• If a pipe freezes, thaw it slowly with warm air from a hair dryer (not an open flame).

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After the Storm

1. Inspect Your Home

• Check for frozen or burst pipes and roof damage.

• Remove snow or ice from walkways safely to avoid slips.

2. Drive Cautiously

• If travel is necessary, go slow and be alert for black ice or fallen debris.

• Use kitty litter or sand for traction if stuck.

3. Replenish Supplies

• Restock any items used during the storm to be prepared for future events.

4. Help Your Community

• Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those with disabilities.

• Share any excess resources like water, food, or blankets.

5. Electrical Safety

• Avoid downed power lines and report them to authorities immediately.

• When power is restored, turn appliances back on gradually to prevent overloading circuits.

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