Be Prepared for Winter Storms and Extreme Cold

Prepare your home and family

• Prepare for possible extended stay in your home by having sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off. For example, store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.
• Insulate your home to extend the life of your fuel supply. Insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic or heavy drapes.
• Winterize your out buildings that can provide shelter for your family, neighbors, livestock or equipment.
• Clear rain gutters; repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or other structure during a storm.
• Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing.
• Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.
• Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).

• Know ahead of time what you should do to help elderly or disabled friends, neighbors or employees.
• Hire a contractor to check the structural ability of the roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of snow - or water, if drains on flat roofs do not work.
• Don’t forget your food storage in any emergency this is critical.

Prepare your vehicles

Check or have a mechanic check the following items on your automobile first aid kit:
• Antifreeze - ensure it is the proper mix to avoid freezing.
• Battery and ignition system - should be in top condition and battery terminals should be clean. Use baking soda and water to clean terminals.
• Brakes
• Exhaust system - check for leaks and crimped pipes, repair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning.
• Fuel and air filters – help keep water out of your fuel system by using additives and keeping your tank full.
• Heater and defroster - ensure they work properly.
• Lights and flashing hazard lights – replace defective bulbs and elements.
• Oil - check for level and proper winter weight.
• Thermostat - ensure it works properly.
• Windshield wiper equipment – replace wiper blades every 3 months and maintain proper washer fluid level.
Install good winter tires. Make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions.
* Place a winter emergency kit in each car that includes:
•  a shovel
•  windshield scraper and small broom
•  flashlight
•  battery powered radio
•  extra batteries
•  water
•  snack food
•  matches
•  extra hats, socks and mittens
•  first aid kit with pocket knife
•  Necessary medications
•  blanket(s)
•  tow chain or rope
•  road salt and sand
•  booster cables
•  emergency flares
•  fluorescent distress flag

Personally prepare yourself

• Wear several layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.
• Wear mittens, which are warmer than gloves.
• Wear a hat.
•  Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.

Bookmark & Share

1 Comment