Snowstorms Can Be More Dangerous Than You Think

2/12/2022 (Permalink)

A winter storm can range freezing rain and ice to moderate snowfall over a few hours, to a blizzard that lasts for several days.

A winter storm occurs when there is significant precipitation and the temperature is low enough that precipitation forms as sleet or snow, or when rain turns to ice. A winter storm can range freezing rain and ice to moderate snowfall over a few hours, to a blizzard that lasts for several days. 

Winter storms can cause power outages that last for days. They can make roads and walk ways extremely dangerous, impassable, and deaths could occur. Follow these steps to prepare your home in case of a winter storm:

- Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather-stripping around your doors and window sills to keep the warm air inside.

- Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector.

- Keep fire extinguishers on hand and make sure everyone in the home knows how to use them.

- Learn how to shut off water valves in case a pipe burst.

- If you have a wood burning fireplace, consider storing wood to keep you warm if the winter storm knocks out your heat. Also make sure you have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year.

*Have at least one of the following heat sources in case the power goes out:

 -Extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm winter coats;

 -Fireplace or wood-burning stove with plenty of dry firewood, or a gas long fireplace.