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Winter storms can wreak havoc on your home. Frozen pipes burst. Snow buildup damages roofs. Moisture and mold penetrate walls through exterior cracks. And don’t forget the danger of fires, whether from woodstoves, cracked chimneys, candles or space heaters.
While potential dangers are many, by taking preventive measures you can be prepared to weather winter storms.
Prepare your home
Clear gutters and downspouts of debris to allow melting snow and ice to flow freely. To help prevent ice dams from forming, keep the attic well-ventilated and the attic floor well-insulated.
Inspect your roof for damaged shingles or tiles, and have them replaced. Don’t miss the base of the chimney, and repair any cracks to prevent water from leaking in.
Check your yard for dead tree branches or overhanging limbs, and remove them. Falling trees or limbs laden with snow can cause serious damage to your roof and other parts of your property, including sheds, outbuildings and vehicles.
To prevent pipes from bursting, insulate exposed pipes, seal cracks in outside walls near pipes, keep cabinet doors on exterior walls open (to allow warmer air to reach the pipes), and allow a slow trickle of water to flow through unprotected pipes during extreme cold spells.
Keep fire safety in mind
Have your chimney professionally inspected, cleaned and repaired before winter use. Consider doing that as soon as possible. Chimney cleaners get busy when the weather turns colder.
Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are fully functional and batteries have been replaced recently. Keep a fire extinguisher handy, especially if you’re going to be building fires in a fireplace or wood stove.
Never leave a fire or burning candles unattended, and make sure candles are placed away from drapes, tablecloths and other items that could catch on fire if the candle is knocked over.
Use extra caution with space heaters to prevent electrical fires or fires caused by the placement of heaters too close to flammable materials.
Stock up on emergency items
Be sure you have flashlights and a portable radio with extra batteries, any necessary medications, at least three days of water and canned food for family and pets, a can opener, first-aid supplies, heating fuel, and a lighter and/or generous supply of matches stored in a sealed, plastic bag.
When the storm comes
Bent attic rafters or internal doors that jam may be signs that too much ice and snow has accumulated on your roof. Consider having the snow removed in order to avoid potential roof collapse. You can hire a professional, or do it yourself using a snow roof rake with an extension.
Don’t forget insurance
For more information on auto, homeowners and other personal lines of insurance, contact your local AAA office or visit AAA online.