Winter is upon us, which means snow will be in the forecast. Snow and ice, if left untreated, can cause damage to your home and can even be harmful to yourself and your family. That is why it’s important to prepare both your home and your family for snow and ice during the colder months. Here are important snow maintenance and safety tips for your home to keep your home and family safe this season.
Check your Heating System
Before the first snowfall, make sure to turn on your heating system to test it and make sure it is working properly. If you can, have it serviced by a professional to ensure everything is working as it should for the upcoming season.
Check your Fireplace and Chimney
If you have a fireplace or chimney in your home, check to make sure there is no debris stuck within it. Be sure to check for any cracks as well before putting it to use.
Stock up on Supplies
It’s important to be prepared for the weather to come. Before winter gets into full swing, make sure you have all necessary tools for snow maintenance and removal including shovels, a working snowblower, and plenty of salt to put on icy areas.
Build a Winter Emergency Survival Kit
In case of an emergency, every home should have a winter emergency survival kit. Common items for a survival kit include flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, phone chargers, bottled water, non-perishable food, blankets, hand warmers, and a radio.
Seal Windows or Doors
To keep your home as warm as possible, check all windows and doors to make sure they don’t have any cracks or that they are allowing any drafts to come through.
Prevent your Pipes from Freezing
Before the temperatures get really low, check all of your pipes for any signs of weakness including cracks or holes. If the pipes do crack it can lead to serious structural damage in your home.
Access your Tree Limbs
Check your property’s tree limbs for any low hanging branches. When heavy snow builds up on the limbs it could risk it breaking off which could cause property damage or even injury to the people in your home.
Be Cautious of Icicles
Icicles can be very dangerous especially if they are bigger in size. Safely knock any low hanging icicles off with a broom. For ones up higher, make sure no one stands underneath them until they have melted and fallen off on their own.
Keep Sidewalks Clear
Keep all sidewalks, stairways, and pathways around your home clear of snow and ice. If the area is still slippery be sure to use salt or sand to help provide better traction for people walking around your home.
Shovel Safely
When shoveling snow and doing other snow maintenance tasks, be sure to lift with your knees and not your back to prevent injuries. Make sure to take breaks when needed, dress appropriately to stay warm, and use a snow blower instead when you’re able to do so top avoid unnecessary strain.
Keep Sidewalks Clear
Keep all sidewalks, stairways, and pathways around your home clear of snow and ice. If the area is still slippery be sure to use salt or sand to help provide better traction for people walking around your home.