Tips for winterizing your home:
-Check your home heating system and get a tune-up
-Know the optimal temperatures for your thermostat. 65 degrees during the day and 68 - 72 degrees during the night is recommended.
-Change out your furnace filters
-Insulate your hot and cold water piping
-Check for any holes that need to be caulked
When a snow storm is coming:
-Keep alternative heating sources prepared. If you have a fireplace, store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood. Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure your family knows how to use them.
-Do not use charcoal grills or generators indoors; the fumes can be deadly.
-Turn off electrical appliances that were on when the power went off to avoid a power surge when the electricity is restored.
-Use flashlights. Do not use candles; they greatly increase the chance of having a fire in your home.
-Limit your activities to no more than two rooms and close off unneeded rooms.
-Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors and cover windows at night to keep cold air out and warm air in.
-If you have well water, fill up tubs and buckets with water so if the power goes out you still have water.
-Remember to eat and drink regularly. Food provides the body with energy to produce its own heat.
-Keep the body replenished with fluids to prevent dehydration.
-Wear layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Layering clothes keeps you warmer than a single layer of heavy clothing. Remove layers to avoid overheating, perspiration and subsequent chill.
WATCH: Did you miss our Winter Weather Special? Catch it here in four parts
Winter Weather Special, Part 1
Winter Weather Special, Part 2
Winter Weather Special, Part 3
Winter Weather Special, part 4
During a winter storm, it is recommended you stay inside and not drive. Sometimes, however, driving is unavoidable.
Here's a list for an emergency kit to keep in your car for winter:
- Blankets
- An Ice scraper
- Jumper cables
- Drinking water
- Snacks
- A shovel
- Cat litter (for tire traction)
If your car needs repairs and you don't have a mechanic, check out igonc.com and technetprofessional.com Enter your zip code to get a list of shops near you.