Be Prepared for Winter Storms

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

Winter storms can be just as damaging to homes as any other.  The American Red Cross offers the following guidelines to help be prepared for them:

• Learn how to protect pipes from freezing
• Make sure your home heating sources are installed according to local codes and permit requirements and are clean and in working order.
• Make sure your home is properly insulated. Caulk and weather-strip doors and windowsills to keep cold air out.
• Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside to provide an extra layer of insulation to keep cold air out.
• Consider buying emergency heating equipment, such as a wood- or coal-burning stove or an electric or kerosene heater.
  • Stoves must be properly vented and in good working order. Dispose of ashes safely. Keep a supply of wood or coal on hand.
  • Electric space heaters, either portable or fixed, must be certified by an independent testing laboratory. Plug a heater directly into the wall socket rather than using an extension cord and unplug it when it is not in use.
  • Use a kerosene heater only if permitted by law in your area; check with your local fire department. Use only the correct fuel for your unit. Properly ventilate the area. Refuel the unit outdoors only, and only when the unit is cool. Follow all of the manufacturer's instructions.
• Consider storing sufficient heating fuel. Regular fuel sources may be cut off. Be cautious of fire hazards when storing any type of fuel.
• If you have a fireplace, consider keeping a supply of firewood or coal. Be sure the fireplace is properly vented and in good working order and that you dispose of ashes safely.
• Consider installing a portable generator, following our safety tips to avoid home fires and carbon monoxide poisoning
• Consider purchasing flood insurance, if you live in a flood-prone area, to cover possible flood damage that may occur during the spring thaw. Homeowners' policies do not cover damage from floods. Ask your insurance agent about the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) if you are at risk. More information on NFIP is available at www.fema.gov/nfip.

- Source: American Red Cross