12/22/2022
A few tips for the cold snap coming - the main one for immediate action is to keep a faucet dripping and insulate hose bibbs. You may even have an isolation valve to turn off exterior water sources. Stay warm!
Get Your Home Winter Ready
• Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic
• Winterize your house, barn, shed or any other structure that may provide shelter for your family, neighbors, livestock or equipment
• Clear rain gutters; repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or other structure during a storm
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year
• Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing; Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing
• All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside and kept clear
• Keep fire extinguishers on hand and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them
• Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts)
• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out
Carbon Monoxide Safety
• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. Locate unit away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors
• The primary hazards to avoid when using alternate sources for electricity, heating or cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire
• Install carbon monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide
• If the carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door
• Call for help from the fresh air location and remain there until emergency personnel arrive to assist you