15 tips for preparing your house and family for a winter storm - Prudential Alarm

Here are some house preparation tips to help you get ready…

1. Insulate Your Home:

• Make sure your home is well-insulated to retain heat. Check for drafts around windows and doors, and use weather stripping or caulking to seal them.

2. Service Heating Systems:

• Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance for your heating systems, such as furnaces, fireplaces, and space heaters.

3. Stock Up on Supplies:

• Create an emergency kit for your vehicle and home with essentials like non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, extra warm clothes, gloves or mittens, blankets, and first aid kits.

4. Winterize Plumbing:

• Insulate pipes to prevent freezing. Allow faucets to drip during freezing weather to keep water flowing and avoid freezing.

5. Trim Trees and Remove Dead Branches:

• Ice and snow can weigh down branches, leading to breakage. Trim trees and remove dead branches to prevent damage to your home.

6. Clear Gutters:

• Remove leaves, debris, and blockages from gutters to ensure proper drainage. This helps prevent ice dams and water damage.

7. Seal Cracks and Gaps:

• Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, and openings in walls, windows, and doors. Seal them with caulk or weather stripping to prevent cold air from entering.

8. Have a Generator Ready:

• Consider having a backup generator if you live in an area prone to power outages. Ensure it is in good working condition and has sufficient fuel.

9. Know How to Shut Off Utilities:

• Familiarize yourself with how to shut off water, gas, and electricity in an emergency. This knowledge can be crucial in preventing or minimizing damage.

10. Insulate Windows:

• Install storm windows or use insulating window film to keep the cold and warm air out.

11. Have Snow Removal Equipment:

• Make sure you have snow shovels, ice melt, and a snow blower if necessary. Keep these items easily accessible.

12. Plan for Power Outages:

• Have a plan for power outages, including alternative lighting sources, such as candles or battery-powered lanterns.

13. Stay Informed:

• Keep updated on weather forecasts and emergency alerts. Sign up for weather alerts on your mobile phone and have a battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio.

14. Plan for Pets:

• If you have pets, ensure enough food, water, and a warm place for them. Consider their safety and well-being during the winter storm.

15. Emergency Communication Plan:

• Establish a communication plan with family members and neighbors. Share emergency contact information, ensure your emergency alert devices are charged, determine how you may charge them (if needed) if the power goes out, and discuss where to go in case of evacuation.

Being proactive and preparing in advance can significantly affect how well you weather a winter storm. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and take steps to protect your home and family from the potential challenges that winter weather can bring.