Winter Preparedness Checklist
BE WINTER READY
This bulletin will help you to prepare for the harsh climate conditions during our winter months.
Prepare Your House!
- Ensure all fire alarms in the house are working because of the frequent use of fire for heating.
- Clean the fireplace more often in the winter. If the flue is blocked, smoke can be trapped in the house and cause respiratory problems.
- To prevent furnace malfunction during cold temperatures, have the heating system maintained before winter.
- Have a qualified contractor inspect the roof, the water pipes and the electrical system to find out whether the house will safely withstand the stresses of winter.
- Acquire an alternate heating source such as an electric heater to use in an emergency if you boiler/heating system goes down.
- Learn how to turn off water mains, gas and electricity sources so you are well prepared in case of an emergency.
Put Together a Basic Survival Kit at Home!
- Get enough supply of nonperishable food that will feed your household for several days.
- Provide five gallons of drinking water per person and an adequate supply of medications that are prescribed
- Include also manual can opener, blankets, matches, candles, flashlights, battery-powered radios, extra batteries and a first aid kit.
Act Safely at Home!
- Follow these simple tips to help keep you safe at home this winter:
- Use only untreated wood in open fires as particles can fly off of wood that is treated with certain flammable substances.
- Keep extra blankets and flashlights on hand to prepare for any power outages.
- Dress for the weather and ensure that children wear warm socks, gloves and warm hats when they play in the yard.
- Cover all exposed skin when you are conducting work outside.
- Pace yourself when shoveling snow as it can put a lot of stress on your back and on your heart
Prepare Your Vehicle!
Mare sure that the key systems in your vehicle are in top condition, these include:
- windshield wipers
- Brakes
- defroster
- heater
- exhaust system
- plug-in
- Purchase snow tires for your car, to enhance traction and control.
- Check your car fluids for proper levels and conditions (i.e. antifreeze and windshield washer fluid)
- Check your tire, to ensure they are properly inflated and the tread is in good condition. Note – Tires lose pressure during winter months.
- Replace traditional wiper blades with snow blades.
- Check your battery and alternator – you need more starting power in the cold weather.
- Keep your vehicle clean during the winter – especially headlights, windshield, windows and tail lights. This will make it easier for you to see and be seen.
- Keep your fuel topped off. If you get stuck in the snow, you will want to be able to run the engine to stay warm.
- Carry kitty litter in the car in case the vehicle gets stuck. Placing kitty litter under the stuck tires – which should have the snow cleared away to help free the car – will allow for better traction.