Winter storm Jonas was brutal, and for those who don’t usually experience that kind of weather, you might not have known exactly how to prepare yourself or handle the cold. Now is the time to get yourself ready in case we get hit with another bad storm this winter.
Take a look at these tips so you’re prepared for the next storm.
WINTER STORM TIPS FOR YOUR HOME
Thanks to rain, sleet, snow, and ice, your home is a target for potential damage during a winter storm. Here are a few things you can do to protect your home and yourself during bad winter weather:
- Keep a supply of batteries, small lanterns, candles, and lighters/matches on hand in case the power goes out.
- Add foam insulation around pipes prior to the start of a storm to help keep them from freezing.
- Run your faucets at a slow drip to prevent water from freezing in the pipes.
- Disconnect hoses from all outside faucets and spigots and drain them. Cover the spigots with an insulated dome.
- During calm weather, add extra insulation in your attic to help keep your home warmer.
- Consider updating your windows to help keep cold air out. If that’s not an option, use caulk to seal cracks around the windows and cover them with plastic.
- Make sure your snow blower and shovels are in good working condition.
WINTER STORM TIPS FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
There are things you can do to keep you and your family safe and warm during a bad storm.
- Wear extra layers of clothing.
- Create a disaster kit with flashlights, blankets, water, non-perishable food, warm clothing, and socks.
- Refill your prescriptions before the storm hits.
- Make sure you have enough food and water for each person in your home for 72 hours.
- Keep your phone and other electronic devices fully charged at all times so they can be used if the power goes out.
- Bring your pets inside and make sure you have blankets and food for them, too.
WINTER STORM TIPS FOR YOUR VEHICLE
It’s easy to forget about your vehicle until you really need it. Here are a few things that you can do to make sure that your car is ready for the next big storm.
- Fill up your gas tank before the storm hits. This will help you avoid long gas lines when the storm is over.
- Stay off of the roads, if possible. Try not to drive unless you have no choice.
- If you have to be out on the roads, keep a disaster kit with you at all times.
- Keep your car maintained. Check the battery, oil, and tires prior to the storm.
- Pull your windshield wiper blades up before the snow hits to prevent them from freezing to your windshield.
Hopefully, we’ve seen the last of the bad weather this winter, but just in case, make sure you have what you need to ride out the storm and prevent as much damage as possible to you or your home.
If you need to know what kind of damage is covered by your homeowner’s insurance or if you need a quote for a new policy, give us a call.