Winter storms are a hassle for any homeowner. Not only can winter storms cause damage to your home, but they can also leave you without power and feeling helpless. Keep your family safe and secure this winter with these tips for how to prepare your home for a winter storm.
Winterize Your Home
The first thing to do when you know a winter storm is on its way is to make sure that your structure is safe and prepared. If you have any exposed plumbing that may be likely to freeze and burst, insulate these pipes with foam insulation or old rags and towels if you’re in a pinch. If you’re able to get on a ladder and clear your gutters before the storm hits, this can help prevent ice dams and flooding when the snow melts. Be sure to keep tree branches trimmed back away from your roof to prevent roof and shingle damage.
Schedule a Chimney Inspection
One of the best winter habits to get into is scheduling a yearly chimney inspection. This will ensure that your chimney is clear and your fireplace is safe to use. A fireplace is a valuable source of heat if your home power goes out during a storm or if you start to experience issues with your heat or HVAC unit. If you don’t clear your chimney first, the smoke and debris from the fire can funnel back into your home, causing smoke inhalation and dangerous conditions.
Emergency Winter Storm Kit
This time of year, every family should have a winter storm kit prepared in case of emergencies. In fact, you may want to keep multiple emergency kits on hand in your home and in your car for travel purposes. Here are some key items to include in your emergency kit:
- Cell phone chargers and batteries
- Extra warm clothes and accessories like scarves, hats, etc.
- Flashlight
- Battery-powered radio
- Water
- Non-perishable food and snacks
- Waterproof matches
Keep an eye on your local weather forecasts during the winter season so that you can be adequately prepared for upcoming winter storms. Remember these tips for how to prepare your home for a winter storm in advance so that your family will be ready. Acting on these tips in advance will help you have complete peace of mind during the next blizzard that comes your way.
Mom on the go in Holy Toledo 