EP - Top 10 Ways To Prepare for Cold Weather

Top 10 Ways To Prep For Cold Weather…

Article posted from TheReadyStore.com, September 2011


10. Blankets
 Make sure you have plenty of blankets on hand in case of a loss of power or loss of a heating source.

9. Alternative Heating Source
Make sure you have another way to heat your home and cook your meals.  Relying only on your primary sources of heat and power could leave you in a precarious situation.  Don’t make this mistake.

8. Food Storage
Stock up on food.  This will come in very handy if you are ever snowed in.  It will also be a great help to those of your friends, family, or neighbors, who may by in a time of need.

7. Water Storage
Don’t let your stored water freeze.  This can ruin the containers it is stored in.  Keep your water in above freezing temperatures.

6. Winterize your home
Extend the life of your fuel supply by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic.

5. Insulate pipes 
Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing. Also, winterize your sprinkler system.

4. Keep fire extinguishers on hand
House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.

3. Winterize Your Car
Cold weather can be very tough on vehicles.  Make sure that you’ve had your vehicles heating system checked.  Make sure your tires are ready for ice and snow. Make sure you keep at least a half a tank of gas at all times, and that you have an Auto emergency kit in your vehicle.

2. Check Your Roof
If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, make sure you have your roof checked for integrity.  Can it handle the weight of the snow that will come?

1. Clothing
Make sure you dress appropriately for the cold weather.  Keep extra coats on hand in your car.  You don’t want to get caught in a snow or ice storm without the ability to stay warm.  Wear extra layers and keep scarfs, gloves, and a warm hat nearby.