The winter weather months can be very hard on your home. From snow and ice to frigid temperatures – winter can destroy your home and property, but with a little preparation you can protect your home and family from the harsh elements. Additionally, record-setting snowfalls are also occurring in some parts of the country. With what could be a long winter ahead of us, take a few moments to prepare your home and family.

Inside the Home

• If you have a working chimney, be sure to have it serviced before each winter season to ensure it is working properly and not obstructed. Chimney fires are very common in the winter months – even in serviced chimneys.
• Keep an alternative heat source available in the event of extended power outages, such as a kerosene heater or access to firewood.
• Ensure all smoke detectors are working properly. It’s best to test them once each season and change the batteries on Daylight Savings Time.
• Install a thermostat timer that can be set to maintain a cooler temperature while you are away from the home – saving money on your heating costs.
• Insulate walls and attics to keep heat indoors.
• Caulk window strips and doors to prevent cold air from entering the home.
• Insulate water lines that run along the outside walls of the home to prevent freezing.
• Keep an emergency stock of nonperishable food and water to last at least two or three days in the event of heavy snowfall.

Outside the Home

• Service any snow removal equipment prior to the snow falling.
• Cut away tree branches that could collapse under heavy snow.
• Invest in quality ice melt products that will continue to work even in the coldest temperatures before the snow begins to fall.
• Bring pets indoors.

In the Car

• Keep an emergency kit in the car in the event that you are stranded in the cold, which should include a blanket and nonperishable food and water to last at least two days.
• Rotate and/or replace tires on your car to maintain the tread.
• Keep the gas tank full to avoid fuel line freezing.
• Check the fluids in your car to ensure proper functionality.

Following these simple tips will help keep you and your family safe this winter.