Stay safe and prepared this winter with our comprehensive guide. Whether at home or outdoors, these tips will help you navigate the season’s challenges while keeping you and your loved ones warm and secure.

At Home

1. Winterize Your Home

• • Seal windows and doors with weatherstripping, caulk, or draft stoppers to prevent heat loss and lower energy bills.
  • Let faucets drip during extreme cold to prevent pipes from freezing. Open cabinet doors under sinks to circulate warm air.

2. Maintain a Safe Heat Source

• • Use space heaters with caution, ensuring they are placed at least three feet from flammable materials and never left unattended.
  • Regularly inspect furnaces, boilers, and chimneys for safe operation, and replace filters as needed.

3. Test Alarms

• • Ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. If you don’t have them, install them immediately.

4. Prepare for Power Outages

• • Stock up on flashlights, batteries, backup phone chargers, and non-perishable foods.
  • Have blankets and extra warm clothing readily available.

5. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters

• • Check for loose shingles or leaks to avoid damage from heavy snow. Keep gutters clear to prevent ice dams.

Outdoors

1. Dress for the Weather

• • Wear multiple thin layers: a moisture-wicking base, insulating middle layer, and waterproof outer layer.
  • Cover extremities with hats, gloves, scarves, and insulated boots.
  • Stay dry, as wet clothing increases the risk of hypothermia.

2. Shovel Smart and Salt Walkways

• • Use ergonomic shovels and take frequent breaks to avoid strain or injury.
  • Treat icy paths with salt, sand, or kitty litter to prevent slips and falls.

3. Drive Safely

• • Reduce speed on icy roads and increase distance between vehicles to avoid accidents.
  • Keep a winter emergency kit in your car with blankets, hand warmers, water, snacks, and a flashlight.

4. Watch for Black Ice

• • Be cautious of invisible ice patches on sidewalks and roads, especially in early mornings or shady areas.

5. Limit Outdoor Time

• • Protect yourself and pets from frostbite by minimizing exposure during extremely cold temperatures. Ensure outdoor animals have adequate shelter.

Community Tips

1. Check on Neighbors

• • Reach out to elderly or vulnerable neighbors to ensure they have heat, supplies, and assistance if needed.

2. Support Local

• • Visit neighborhood coffee shops and restaurants to stay warm while helping your community thrive.

3. Stay Informed

• • Follow local weather reports and city updates for alerts about severe weather conditions and snow removal schedules.

Emergency Preparedness

1. Stock Up on Essentials

• • Keep a supply of non-perishable foods, bottled water, medications, and pet supplies.
  • Assemble an emergency kit with first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and a portable phone charger.

2. Ventilate Safely

• • Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by keeping vents clear of snow and using space heaters according to manufacturer guidelines.

Stay safe this winter by following these tips and sharing them with your friends and family. Together, we can weather the season’s challenges and enjoy all the warmth and beauty it has to offer!