Extreme Cold Weather Safety Tips

How to Keep Warm in Your Home

• Have your furnace inspected before cold weather arrives. Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks, install a new air filter, and check the thermostat to see if it’s working properly.
• Inspect fireplaces, and chimneys before using, and make sure they are clean.
• Keep drapes and blinds closed, unless windows are in direct sunlight.
• Put up storm windows, or install sheet plastic window insulation kits on the inside of windows.
• Cover or remove any window air conditioners.
• Insulate electrical outlets and switches on exterior walls with foam seals available at home centers.
• Caulk any cracks or holes on the outside of your house.
• Repair or replace weather stripping and areas around doors and windows.
• Run ceiling fans on low in reverse (clockwise when looking up) to circulate warm air around the house.
• Put draft snakes on window sills, between window frames, and against doors- anything with openings.
• If you heat with propane or fuel oil, make sure the tank is full.
• If you heat with wood or coal, have plenty of fuel on hand.

How to Stay Safe in an Ice or Snow Storm

• Stockpile nonperishable food and water.
• Refill prescription medications in advance of storm.
• Fill car with gas. Have a snow brush in the vehicle. 
• Charge cell phones fully.
• Have flashlights, batteries, non-perishable foods, and a manual can opener on hand.
• A portable generator can come in handy if the lights go out, but take precautions to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning when using.
• Make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and the batteries powering them will last.
• Have a working fire extinguisher on hand for emergencies.
• A chain saw can come in handy for removing broken limbs after an ice storm.