Snow and Ice Warning in Your Area - How to be Prepare

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

Emergency Preparedness Is Key

When weather takes a cold turn, staying safe and warm can be difficult. Winter storms can bring cold temperatures, power shortages, loss of communication services and unsafe roads. Keep you and your family safe by planning and creating a personalized ‘disaster’ plan. 

Weatherproofing your home in advance is a wonderful place to start. Be sure to insulate any water lines that run along exterior walls so your water supply will be less likely to freeze. Insulate your walls and attic, as well as caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows. Repair any roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could potentially fall or break and cause damage to your home. Installing thermal pane windows or covering your windows with plastic from the inside is an additional way to avoid ice damage.

Install a smoke detector and a battery-operated monoxide detector if you plan to use a fireplace, wood stove or a kerosene heater. Be sure to test them monthly and replace batteries twice a year. Make sure you have your chimney and flue inspected each year. Each winter you should have your furnace system and vents checked by a qualified technician to make sure they are working properly. 

House Emergency Kits for Winter Weather

It is best to avoid travelling in dangerous weather, so families are encouraged to stay home to avoid bad weather conditions. In wintery weather conditions, it is useful to equip yourself and your family with the following to help avoid unnecessary travelling:

• Package of bottled water
• An emergency plan specific to your home
• Create a list of emergency contacts
• Battery-powered radio with extra batteries
• First aid kit

Final Thoughts for Winter Storm Preparedness

Be sure to listen to your local forecasts regularly, as well as keep a check on your emergency supplies such as your food and water supply. Weather forecasts systems typically give several days' notice to prepare for hazardous weather. Following our SERVPRO list of Storm Do’s will have you prepared for the unexpected and help to avoid damage where possible.

Water Damage in Your Columbia County Home Due to Bursting Pipes? Give SERVPRO® of Columbia County a call and we’ll be there to make it "Like it never even happened." Call us at 706-868-5441 to get immediate help now.