How to Prepare for a Winter Storm

It doesn’t matter if you live in the northeast, where snow is typical, or down south, where bitter temperatures only happen sporadically—when a winter storm hits, it’s critical to be prepared. So, as we turn back the clocks, layer on the flannels, and anticipate winter’s chilly arrival, there’s no better time than now to explore some essential winter safety tips.

For a safe winter at home this season, there are several precautions you can do now. And why not take charge of them while you can? This way if you experience blizzard weather, or your region is prone to winter storms, you’ll be ready for anything. After all, if you’ve ever experienced severe winter weather, you know how a simple checklist or detailed safety plan can be a total lifesaver in an emergency. Let’s break it down into a handy step-by-step guide for you.

6 Winter Safety Tips for a Happy Home This Season

Keep this winter safety list handy should severe weather hit your town this year. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

1. Maintain Good Communication

It is essential to talk to your family before a storm hits. Together you can create a smart plan, so everyone knows how to communicate with each other should severe winter weather affect your home.

• Charge your cell phones before a storm hits.

• Keep batteries on hand as well as a battery-powered radio.

• Check on elderly family members and neighbors before, during, and after a winter storm.

2. Plan for Warmth

If blizzard weather is headed your way, it’s going to get cold— especially if snow or ice accumulates on power lines and you experience a power loss. Whatever your winter storm situation, you’ll want to stay warm and safe.

• Keep blankets, coats, hats, gloves, and other items that provide warmth nearby.

• Do not use the stove to heat your home as this can be dangerous.

• If you have a real fireplace, keep your wood pile fully stocked.

• If you need to use electric heaters, be confident they have automatic shutoffs and are always a safe distance from anything flammable.

3. Stay Charged

Again, if you experience a power outage, you’ll want to be prepared.

• Keep lanterns and battery-powered flashlights nearby for easy access should you lose power.

• Have an extra stash of batteries on hand.

• Charge portable cell phone chargers before the storm.

4. Stock Up on Food

It’s also a smart idea to keep a stash of non-perishable food if you can’t cook or use your refrigerator.

• Keep a week’s worth of food on hand, including non-perishable items that don’t have to be kept in the fridge.

• Keep extra supplies such as batteries, lanterns, flashlights, rock salt, water, shovels, and blankets nearby.

• Don’t use charcoal grills indoors as their fumes can be harmful.

5. Be Smart in an Emergency

If you’re expecting a winter storm, or worse yet, blizzard weather, stay home. Nothing is worth risking your life for.

• Minimize all travel during any severe winter weather events.

• If you absolutely must go out, be sure your car is filled with emergency items like a windshield scraper, booster cables, gloves, blankets, flares, and a tool kit.

6. Keep Water Flowing

When temperatures dip, pipes can freeze. Take precautions before this happens.

• Leave your faucets dripping to avoid any frozen pipes.

• If your pipes do freeze, use a hairdryer to try and thaw them! But be careful while doing this. If you need assistance, please call a licensed plumber.

Bonus Winter Safety Tip!

In addition to all our winter safety tips, there is one more surefire way to keep your home safe this season. If you haven’t already had your fall heating tune-up, then now is the time to schedule one. Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your heater working efficiently, safely, and properly. Remember regular heating tune-ups provide:

• Lower energy bills

• A more efficiently run system

• Increased lifespan of your system

• Cleaner indoor air

• Improved heating performance

• Fewer breakdowns

• More balanced comfort throughout your home

• Peace of mind

• Extra safety for family

• …And so much more!

ARS/Rescue Rooter Will Help You Stay Cozy This Winter

ARS/Rescue Rooter wants all our customers to be prepared and protected before severe winter weather strikes. If you require HVAC service for any reason—including winter storm damage— call ARS/Rescue Rooter to assist you. We provide emergency heating and cooling service seven days a week and are always just a phone call away when you need us.

Find your nearest ARS/Rescue Rooter location or call right away at 866-399-2885 for service today!