How-to: Be Snowstorm Ready

With winter rolling in, so does the possibility and inevitability of snowstorms. Hot cocoa mix and cozy socks are essential, but safeguarding your home during a snowstorm requires prep and a proactive approach. Snowstorms can pose significant challenges to homeowners – from snowed-in icy driveways to power outages. Stay informed, stock up on supplies, and take charge in maintaining and prepping your home to ensure a safe snowstorm season.

Here’s how…

Stock up on essentials You know this one. Before the snowstorm hits, make sure you have an ample supply of non-perishable food, bottled water, medications, batteries, flashlights, firewood if you’ve got a fireplace, de-icing salt, and other emergency supplies like first aid kits.

*Pro Tip: stock up on bags of de-icing salt now, before the pre-snowstorm shopping frenzy

Insulate pipes Prevent frozen pipes by making sure they’re in fact insulated – especially in unheated areas like the basement. If you don’t know or can’t remember the last time you checked, this is your friendly reminder.

*Pro Tip: in the event of extreme cold, it’s recommended to let faucets drip to keep water flowing and reduce the risk of pipes freezing

Seal windows and doors Check for drafts and seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulk to keep cold air out and the warmth in.

Back Up Heating It’s always a good idea to have back up heating sources ready, such as a generator or space heaters, in case of a power outage. Follow instructions and safety guidelines when operating a space heater

Clear Snow and Ice Safely Shoveling and De-icing is a must. Keep walkways and driveways clear of snow and ice to prevent slips and falls. Use a snow shovel or snow blower and apply de-icing salt to minimize ice buildup.

Furnace Inspection Ensure your heating system is in top condition by scheduling a professional inspection before winter arrives. Change filters regularly to maintain efficiency. For more about filters in the home that need regular maintenance or changing, check out our blog here.

Fireplace Safety If you have a fireplace, annual chimney sweeps are imperative. Stock up on firewood and ensure proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.

Protect Outdoor Items From your outdoor furniture, to your grill, measures to protect these items should be taken, ideally before the season begins, to prevent damage from heavy snow or wind