Winter storm preparedness and Winterization
Here are some tips to prepare for a winter storm:
- Stock up on supplies: Make sure you have enough food, water, and medications to last for several days in case you become snowed in or lose power.
- Winterize your home: Insulate pipes, seal windows and doors, and install weather stripping to prevent drafts.
- Have a backup power source: Invest in a generator or a battery-powered lantern in case the electricity goes out.
- Keep your car prepared: Make sure your vehicle has winter tires, a full tank of gas, and an emergency kit that includes a shovel, sand, and blankets.
- Stay informed: Monitor weather reports and listen to the advice of local authorities. If a winter storm is expected, stay inside and avoid traveling.
- Be safe: If you must go outside, dress warmly in layers and be mindful of the dangers of hypothermia and frostbite.
- Check on your neighbors: Help those who may be elderly, disabled, or without power and ensure they have what they need to stay safe and warm.
If you are leaving for a few days, temporarily winterize your home, especially if the temperatures are colder than usual.
- Turn off your plugs and appliances so your solar system isn’t drained unnecessarily.
- Unplug your Hot Water tank so it does not explode.
- Leave your propane furnace on low or medium to keep pipes from freezing.
- Ask a neighbor to run your generator for 1-4 hours a day.
- Ask a neighbor to brush off your solar panels.
- Do not leave pets unattended for extended periods of time.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you and your family and your home are protected as much as possible.