Winter Weather Tips
Winter Weather Checklist
Print our Winter Weather preparedness checklist and review it with your family!» Learn more
Preparing for Winter Storms
Winterize Your Home
- Insulate walls and attic.
- Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows.
- Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside.
- Install and check smoke detectors.
Have Safe Emergency Heating Equipment Available
- Fireplace with ample supply of wood.
- Small, well vented, wood, coal, or camp stove with fuel.
- Portable space heaters or kerosene heaters. Check with your local fire department for usage. Use only the correct fuel for your unit and follow manufacturer's instructions. Refuel outdoors only when cool. Keep your kerosene heater at least 3 feet away from furniture and other flammable objects. If you have small children, you may wish to consider an alternative.
To Keep Pipes from Freezing
- Wrap pipes in insulation or layers of old newspapers.
- Cover the newspapers with plastic to keep out moisture.
- Let faucets drip a little to avoid freezing.
- Know how to shut off water valves.
Dress to Fit the Season
Wear loose fitting, light-weight, warm clothing in several layers. Trapped air insulates. Layers can be removed to avoid perspiration and subsequent chill. Outer garments should be tightly woven, water repellant, and hooded. Wear a hat. Half your body heat loss can be from the head. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold. Mittens, snug at the wrist are better than gloves. Try to stay dry.