8 Tips to Winterize Your Home
- Check and install weather stripping, insulation, and storm windows.
- Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls.
- Clean out gutters and repair roof leaks.
- Check your heating systems.
- Have your heating system serviced professionally to make sure that it is clean.
- Inspect and clean fireplaces and chimneys.
- Install a smoke detector; Test batteries monthly.
- Have a safe alternate heating source and alternate fuels available.
Get Your Car Ready for the Cold Weather in 7 Steps
- Service the radiator and maintain antifreeze level.
- Keep an extra phone charger inside your vehicle.
- Check tire tread or, if necessary, replace tires with all-weather or snow tires
- Keep gas tank full to avoid ice in the tank.
- Store a few energy bars in the glove box, just in case.
- Use a wintertime formula in your windshield washer.
- Create a winter emergency kit (e.g. compass, maps, flashlight, tire pump, etc.) for your car in case you become stranded.
6 Ways to Stay Safe & Healthy this Winter
- Maintain a moderate exercise regimen during winter months to avoid weight gain.
- Always be aware of the outside wind chill factor, dress accordingly.
- Make sure you are up to date on all prescription medications.
- Take time to stay hydrated; replace coffee with non-caffeinated tea.
- If you feel depressed, call a friend, a national hotline or go see a professional counselor.
- Always wear appropriate outdoor clothing; layers of light, warm clothing.
And as always for pet owners, be sure your pets are inside and hydrated. If you do have pets outside make sure they have a safe, dry place to retreat when temperatures dip and they always have fresh water available. Be sure to check on the very young and elderly and even single moms caring for young children. Emergencies can strike at any time. Be safe.
Partial content from this article provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Image courtesy of Monroe News/AP.
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