Winter weather is on the way, and you need to be prepared for the worse case scenario, so here are some things that you can do now to prepare for the winter blast.
● Restock flashlights, batteries, shelf-stable food and necessary prescriptions.
● Charge all devices just in case you lose internet and cell service, especially in heavily wooded areas that have seen damage during past storms.
● Insulate outdoor pipes and know where your main water shutoff valve is. Frozen plumbing problems tend to spike in January and February.
● Check generators, fireplaces and space heaters now, and make sure all are properly vented. Never run generators indoors or in enclosed spaces to avoid carbon monoxide exposure.
● Check V-103 for the latest in school, business, and church closings and cancellations.
● Bring pets inside during freezing nights and make sure outdoor animals have fresh, unfrozen water and shelter.
● Put together a basic car kit that includes blankets, phone chargers, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter for traction, and snacks.
● Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries so they are ready for increased use of heaters, fireplaces and generators.
● Check on elderly neighbors, people with disabilities and anyone who relies on powered medical equipment so you have a plan to help them if there are outages or travel issues.