Winter is coming 

 (Whether you like it or not!)

                             

Winter can be fun – sledding, skiing, skating, building snow men… but can be dangerous or at least uncomfortable if you aren’t prepared!

Extreme cold can be very dangerous, so dress in layers, cover your skin and limit the amount of time you spend outside.

 

Car: 

If you plan to travel this winter, stay off icy roads when winter storm advisories or watches are issued and, while driving, slow your speed and acceleration.

Keep your gas tank nearly full to help prevent ice from forming in the tank and fuel lines. 

Keep boots, extra clothing & nonperishable food.

Non-clumping kitty litter in case you get stuck & a shovel in your trunk.

Home: 

Power Outages can happen - Build your home emergency kit or make sure your existing kit is up to date. Include everything that everyone in your family would need to stay safe for at least 72 hours, and don’t forget your pets. Include food, water & medications.  Flashlight & extra batteries, Manual can opener, Cell phone, charger & charged power charger.

Have your chimney inspected before using your fireplace for the season.

Have your heating system inspected and serviced to ensure it is good working order.

Space Heaters can be dangerous, but if you are using one, make sure it has an auto shut-off in case it tips over.

To prevent your pipes from freezing, repair and seal cracks around windows and doors, fill spaces around pipes to prevent cold airflow, keep the thermostat above 55 degrees, open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes, and know the location of the main water shut-off valve for your home & shut off water to outside faucets & remove/store the hose for next summer.

Follow these tips to help prevent water damage from an ice dam: 

·         Clean all leaves, sticks and other debris from your home’s gutters and downspouts to clear a path for melting snow. Keep downspouts clear of snow and icicles

·         Evaluate the insulation and ventilation in your attic. Most experts recommend at least R-30 insulation value for an attic (R-38 preferred in northern climates)

·         Remove or relocate heat sources installed in open attic areas directly under the roof

·         Insulate light fixtures in the ceiling below an unheated attic space

·         Insulate and seal attic penetrations such as vents

·         Consider installing an ice melt cabling system on your roof