5 Safety Tips and Preparedness in Cases of Winter Storm

5 Safety Tips and Preparedness in Cases of Winter Storm

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Force Majeure, means a chance, occurrence, unavoidable, or something that we cannot control. A term that we usually describe the force of nature (storm, flood, etc.). It's something that we cannot control or prevent from happening and that we can only prepare for.

As we all know, the East Coast is experiencing a snow storm and we can only wait for the snow storm to be over and assess if there were any damages on our end. I wish you all your safety and please, avoid going out or driving around (if you can). If you really need to go out, keep yourselves warm.

Some areas of the U.S. are all sunshine and fun, but to the areas where snow falls during winter, we can only prepare ourselves in cases like this. I decided to share some tips and how we can prepare in times like this.

Here are 5 Safety Tips and Preparedness in Cases of Winter Storm.(source:http://www.redcross.org)

 1. Allow warmer air to circulate.

Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Also, running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.

2. Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature. 

By keeping the thermostat set to the same temperature during day and night, you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst. 

3. Avoid driving or going out

When conditions include sleet, freezing rain or drizzle, snow or dense fog. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle.

4. When doing Strenuous Task

Before tackling strenuous tasks in cold temperatures, consider your physical condition, the weather factors and the nature of the task.

5. Keep yourself warm.

Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in several layers. Stay indoors, if possible.

How to prepare for a snow storm and what are the things you will need?

• Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.

• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.

• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.

• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

Put Together a Supply Kit

• Water—at least a 3-day supply; one gallon per person per day
• Food—at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food
• Flashlight 
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio 
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit [Available on the Red Cross Store]
• Medications (7-day supply) and medical item
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Cell phone with chargers
• Warm coats, gloves or mittens, hats, boots and extra blankets and warm clothing for all household members
• Ample alternate heating methods such as fireplaces or wood- or coal-burning stoves

Visit http://www.redcross.org for the complete list and for responding in an emergency during a snow storm. I suggest that you print their safety checklist during a snow storm. Keep Safe everyone!