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prepare for a winter stormWinter officially arrived back in December, and we still have several (long) months of cold weather ahead. Not only will we be dressing in layers and bundling up to ward off the chilly air, but we’ll also be shoveling our driveways and digging out our cars after those lovely lake effect snowstorms.  

Be Prepared for a Winter Storm in 5 Steps

Winter storms can bring several inches of snow, blustery winds, freezing rain and ice, or a combination of all of those conditions. This type of weather can cause power outages that leave you without heat, plus dangerous, slippery roads that make it very difficult for emergency services to get to you. This is why it’s so vital that you have a winter storm emergency plan set in place for your home and family. If you are stuck in your home after a major snowfall or ice storm, ensuring that everyone is safe and comfortable for an indefinite amount of time is key.

Here are five steps you should take to properly prepare for a winter storm this season:

  • Review and update your home emergency kit. You’ll want to make sure you not only have a stocked pantry and plenty of water, but your home emergency kit should also be ready to go. A proper home emergency kit should contain flashlights and extra batteries, first aid supplies, extra prescription drugs, personal care and sanitation items, important documents and records, and more.
  • Pick up snow removal gear. Head to your local hardware store and pick up a sturdy snow shovel, as well as some rock salt to melt ice on your driveway and walkways.
  • Properly prep your car. Before a winter storm, make sure your car has a full tank of gas and is up to date on regular maintenance like oil and fluid changes. Keep a separate emergency kit in your car that has similar items as your home kit, but also has sand or kitty litter to help with traction, a windshield scraper, a snow shovel, some extra warm clothing and blankets.
  • Make sure your home is ready. Before winter arrived, you should’ve gone through your home and double-checked that the furnace is in great working condition, as well as that it’s winterized by adding insulation where needed, sealing up any cracks in doors and windows that allow in cold air. Pipes should also be insulated to avoid freezing.
  • Stay safe and warm. Stay indoors during and after a winter storm to stay as safe as possible. If you do lose power, close off unused rooms to consolidate heat, wear layers of clothing and keep a pile of blankets nearby to stay warm. Don’t forget to bring pets inside, too! Remember, using outdoor heating or cooking equipment, or turning on your gas stove to heat the home, is not a good idea. In fact, you should never do this, ever, as it can create a very dangerous situation. Drive only if absolutely necessary, and if you go outside to shovel the driveway, limit yourself to short amounts of time outside to reduce the risk of over-exertion or frostbite.

If you have any questions keeping your home as comfortable and safe as possible this winter, contact our team of professionals today! If you’re in the Cleveland area, give us a call at 216-663-6462.