Many areas of the country seem to be experiencing an exceptionally cold winter this year. The additional snow and ice are elements that require vigilance. There is a lot to keep in mind when going about keeping ourselves, our families, and our property safe from the harshness of winter.
Winter preparation is essential. Start by storing extra blankets, coats, gloves, boots, and other cold gear. Heavy snow and ice often forms on tree limbs that can snap power lines and poles causing extended power outages. Experts advise stocking up on sufficient provisions for at least three days. In addition to such essentials as extra food and water, add matches, candles, flashlights, batteries, and medicine to your list. A generator can help minimize the discomfort of a power loss.
Make sure to prepare your home for sub-freezing conditions. Avoid setting the thermostat lower than 55 degrees to prevent pipes from freezing. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate. Be mindful to remove any harmful products that are typically stored in these areas to prevent access by children or pets. Check all door and window seals and replace any worn or damaged weather strips to safeguard against cold air from entering. Closing any window blinds or curtains will also help minimize cold air entry. Performing these tasks will help everyone stay warm and offers the benefit of lower energy bills.
Don’t neglect your home’s exterior. Trimming tree limbs that hang over any portion of your roof is a good idea. The weight of accumulating ice and snow combined with winter storm winds can lead to broken branches. Remove any debris from gutters to allow melting snow runoff and flow. In addition, drain any garden hoses, cover outside faucets, close and cover swimming pools or hot tubs. Performing these essential chores are an investment in your home and safety.
Remember, if property damage does occur from the frozen blasts of winter, record the event and itemize any damage. Photographs are useful bits of documentation should you need to file an insurance claim. Don’t hesitate to contact us for additional information on how to winterize your home or answer any questions you may have on what to do when property damage occurs.
Stay warm and have a safe winter everyone!
Winter preparation is essential. Start by storing extra blankets, coats, gloves, boots, and other cold gear. Heavy snow and ice often forms on tree limbs that can snap power lines and poles causing extended power outages. Experts advise stocking up on sufficient provisions for at least three days. In addition to such essentials as extra food and water, add matches, candles, flashlights, batteries, and medicine to your list. A generator can help minimize the discomfort of a power loss.
Make sure to prepare your home for sub-freezing conditions. Avoid setting the thermostat lower than 55 degrees to prevent pipes from freezing. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate. Be mindful to remove any harmful products that are typically stored in these areas to prevent access by children or pets. Check all door and window seals and replace any worn or damaged weather strips to safeguard against cold air from entering. Closing any window blinds or curtains will also help minimize cold air entry. Performing these tasks will help everyone stay warm and offers the benefit of lower energy bills.
Don’t neglect your home’s exterior. Trimming tree limbs that hang over any portion of your roof is a good idea. The weight of accumulating ice and snow combined with winter storm winds can lead to broken branches. Remove any debris from gutters to allow melting snow runoff and flow. In addition, drain any garden hoses, cover outside faucets, close and cover swimming pools or hot tubs. Performing these essential chores are an investment in your home and safety.
Remember, if property damage does occur from the frozen blasts of winter, record the event and itemize any damage. Photographs are useful bits of documentation should you need to file an insurance claim. Don’t hesitate to contact us for additional information on how to winterize your home or answer any questions you may have on what to do when property damage occurs.
Stay warm and have a safe winter everyone!
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