A winter storm can hit with unrelenting force. Brutally cold temperatures, ice, snow and power outages are just some of the exposures that you may face during the winter months. Fortunately, steps can be taken to protect yourself, your family and your property if you are put in these situations.
Planning for Winter Weather
Being aware of and eliminating potential hazards prior to inclement weather approaching can save money, time, effort and stress.
• Inspect your property for damaged trees or tree limbs and have them removed appropriately.
• Trim or remove trees that present a hazard to your home, buildings and power lines.
• Prepare a plan in the event there is an extended power outage. Your plan should consider available heat sources, avoiding food spoilage, and care for animals and livestock.
• Consider purchasing or renting a generator for temporary power.
• Identify pipes that are likely to freeze and winterize them appropriately.
Preparing for a Winter Storm
If a winter storm is imminent, what steps should be taken to ensure your life returns to normal as soon as possible?
• Take an inventory of food and water supplies and prepare for the worst. Consider how you would cook these items in the event you are without power.
• Consider what temporary heat sources you will have access to and the fuel supply available for each.
• Keep your cell phones fully charged and have access to a car charger.• Make sure you have an adequate supply of flashlights and batteries. Avoid using candles for a prolonged period of time as they can be a fire hazard.
• Have smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers available for all space heaters, stoves, fireplaces and generators.
• Insulate pipes with insulation, paper or plastic. Allow faucets to drip to avoid freezing pipes. Know where your shut off valves are located in the event a pipe does burst.
• Make sure your vehicles have an adequate supply of fuel.
What to Do When the Power Goes Out
Surviving a winter storm can be grueling, especially when it is accompanied with a loss of power. During these situations, it is important that you conserve your resources.
• Make sure you are adequately dressed and wear multiple layers of clothing.
• Shut off areas of your home which are not in use.
• In order to avoid spoilage, consider storing refrigerated foods in coolers with ice or outside if the temperature allows.
• Make sure your animals and livestock have proper protection and necessities.
For questions relating to your homeowners insurance in Minnesota or Wisconsin contact us at (651) 407-8787 or at info@dannaagency.com.