01/24/2026
With winter weather heading toward Ohio and West Virginia, staying prepared is the best way to keep your family and property safe. At The Burgess Group, we want to make sure our community is ready for whatever the season throws our way.
Here are a few essential tips to take before the snow starts falling:
Protect Your Plumbing
To prevent the headache of frozen or burst pipes, keep a very slow drip of water running from faucets served by exposed pipes. Open under-sink cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. If you have pipes in unheated areas like a garage or crawlspace, consider wrapping them in foam insulation or heat tape.
Prepare Your Home and Supplies
Gather enough food, water, and necessary prescriptions to sustain everyone in your household for at least three days. Remember to include extra supplies for your pets as well. It is also a good idea to assemble a dedicated emergency bin containing flashlights, fresh batteries, a first-aid kit, and heavy blankets.
Stay Warm and Informed
Monitor local news or a trusted weather app to track the storm's path in real-time across the region. If you are using space heaters to stay cozy, keep them away from flammable materials and always turn them off before leaving the room or going to sleep. Dressing in multiple layers is often more effective at retaining body heat than one heavy coat.
Travel with Caution
If you cannot avoid being on the roads, ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas and is equipped with its own small emergency kit. Always share your travel plans and estimated arrival time with a friend or relative before you head out.
Stay safe and warm out there! Feel free to share these reminders with your neighbors and loved ones so we can all look out for one another this winter.