24/7 Emergency Service
Winter Storm Safety Tips
1/10/2021 (Permalink)
We urge home and business owners to prepare for severe weather by following practical winter safety and severe weather tips.
Protect Your Property: Be Prepared!
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) says to be sure you have these things:
- Snow shovels – more than one because they can break, and four hands are better than two if you have them
- Deicers, preferably the pet-safe type*
- Extra fuel, such as firewood, a full propane tank, or a generator.
- Clean blankets, pillows, warm clothing, etc. because you might not be able to do laundry for a while if there is a power outage
- Food and water that doesn’t require refrigeration
- Transistor radio with new batteries — and backup batteries
- Solar-chargers for your cell phones or extra fully charged battery
*When it comes to deicers, some of the more environmentally-safe types include calcium magnesium acetate and sand to improve traction. Be sure to stock up early in the season, as they can become scarce before a well-publicized storm.
Winterize Your Home and Business: Be Ready!
High winds, ice, and moisture from winter storms can easily strip off roof tiles and gutters, exposing your property to serious damage. Make sure no roof tiles are loose or missing. Do the same with your gutters and siding.
- Check roof tiles, shutters, siding, and other exterior materials to ensure they’re secure; make repairs as needed
- Seal air leaks to keep your spaces warmer (and save energy costs); it’s amazing what caulk can do!
- Insulate all exposed plumbing pipes to prevent burst pipes
- Trim tree branches away from your roof to prevent roof damage
Clean The Gutters: Limit Storm Damage!
If you don’t, you risk an ice dam. What’s an ice dam? Ice dams occur when ice melts off the roof during the day and then re-freezes as it drips into a clogged gutter. This can force water back under the roofline and cause serious leaks, often thousands of dollars in damage!
Overgrown tree branches are a risk to your property, vehicles, and loved ones. But trimming and removal can be dangerous, too, so don’t attempt it on your own. Best to hire a professional!
Insulate Pipes: Prevent Water Damage!
Buy foam insulation to cover your pipes. Invest in a temporary patch kit in case you need it later in the season. While you’re insulating your pipes, remind yourself where all water shut-off valves are so you can turn off the water supply in case of any leaks.
NOW you’re ready for a snow day, but if you find yourself with winter storm damage, follow this link HERE for important tips to help you; and contact us at 609-624-0202. As always, we're Here to Help® 24/7, 365 - to make it, "Like it never even happened."®