Preparing for Winter Storms
In West Tennessee, we have come to expect freezing temperatures to start in January and can go until April. Freezing temperatures means ice on the road, close schools, power outage, but more importantly the furnace suddenly going out or a pipe burst. It’s important to keep yourself and your home ready for the unexpected and ensure you’re preparing for seasonal ice in advance.
In the coming weeks, gather emergency kit essentials:
Have an ice-melting agent such as rock salt available for your driveway
Sturdy shovels that are easily accessible to clear your driveway
Flashlights in a few areas of your home
Candles and matches
Extra firewood if you have a wood burning stove or fireplace and portable space heaters
You should also ensure that you have plenty of clothing for layering. Remember that in the event of power loss and being stuck in the cold, you should avoid sweating and maintain a comfortable body temperature by adding and removing layers as time passes.
Keep the water in your home running during severe winter storms. Keeping all taps running at just a trickle will help to prevent your pipes from freezing.
Check your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
Fully stock your First Aid Kit with:
Medication
Bandages
Compresses
Ointments
You can even add extra batteries and a portable radio near your First Aid Kit so you have everything accessible in the same area of your home.
Fully charge portable battery packs for your cellphone in case your phone battery is low when the power goes out.
Be sure to have those extra things your family specifically needs, like dog food or baby formula.
Store at least 3 days’ worth of non-perishable food and water for each member of your family.
Avoid going out when you hear warnings of winter storms, but keep your car’s gas tank full in case you run out of power and need to leave.
McCoy’s Heating & Air hope you keep these tips in mind and stay safe this winter by preparing for the occasional cold temperatures and ice
Stay warm this season!