Jack Frost is rearing his cold, wet, and white head! The Farmer’s Almanac and the last two months have proven that winter is in full-swing, and we may well be in for it this winter. It’s time to prepare for a blizzard if you haven’t already.
-
- Because the temperatures can drop so drastically during the winter, it is important to prepare your greatest financial asset by preventing pipes freezing and breaking.
-
- Try to cover any windows or doors that leak cold air to prevent your home from losing heat. And, clean your gutters to prevent ice dams and water leaks into your home.
-
- Prepare a first aid kit for any emergencies.
-
- Make sure you have the supplies you need to stay warm. A generator is a great asset. Having enough blankets, warm clothes, and an alternative heat source is ideal. Make sure you are knowledgeable about carbon monoxide poisoning and how to prevent it.
-
- A flashlight, extra batteries, and alternative sources of light are important. Charge your external batteries for your phones.
-
- Buy enough non-perishable food and water for three days. Soups, peanut butter and jelly, bread, fruits like bananas and oranges are ideal.
-
- Fill your bathtub with water for an extra source of water for washing.
-
- Fill your propane tank on your grill for a way to cook food outside and put your grill in a place easy to reach but safe.
-
- Make sure you have enough medications to get by for five days.
-
- Shoveling your walk can be extremely taxing on your body especially in a blizzard. Many people die during blizzards due to heart attacks while shoveling. Know your limits and your health condition. Shovel when the snow is light and keep up on it. Don’t shovel after eating and take it nice and slow.
-
- Purchase enough food for your pets. Also designate a space for outdoor pets with a warming light and food, or better yet, bring them inside.
-
- Prepare your car with items to stay warm, nourished, and hydrated. Be sure to include items to help you get out if you get stuck. Read up on what you should do should you slide off the road and become unable to get out. Most importantly, stay home when they tell you to stay home, especially when it is nonessential.
And, for fun, gather candles, games, a juicy book, and download some movies and settle in. Think of a blizzard as a gift–a time to relax and spend time with family–and with some preparation, you can do just that.
At 616 Realty, we want you to stay safe and enjoy your home and family.
Photo by Jill Yarberry
Posted in Home & Garden, Real Estate