Preparing For a Winter Storm
So here we are on the brink of a potentially significant snow and/or ice storm and realizing we might be a bit unprepared. We’re lucky here in the Pacific Northwest to have a generally temperate climate so we’re often not quite as ready for these things as we might be. No matter where you live here are a few things you can do now to be as ready as possible for the impending snowicepocalypse and freezing temperatures.
Buy ice melt today! Unless you’re one of the few over-prepared citizens of our city you probably haven’t considered keeping this on hand. Ice melt rapidly sells out every time a storm comes in so be ahead of the game and go get yours now. Make sure you look for something that is pet friendly to keep your four legged friends safe. Cat litter and sand can be handy for creating traction if you don’t get your ice melt in time.
Make sure you have candles, flashlights, and extra batteries easily accessible in case the power goes out. There’s nothing worse than fumbling through a cabinet or turning on your flashlight to reveal the dim glow of a single twinkle light.
Have plenty of food in the house for humans and pets. Ice storms create hazardous road conditions and let’s face it, nobody wants to leave the house when it’s 19º outside. Restaurants and stores may be closed so make sure you’re good for a couple of days, or longer depending on the length of the storm.
Keep electronics charged. Most people don’t have a backup to their cell phone in case of emergency so keep your phone, computer, and accessory battery packs charged up so you’re not disconnected from the world in case of a power outage.
Disconnect hoses and cover your exterior faucets. It is important to disconnect exterior hoses and make sure the water is turned off, turn that handle as tight as you can. Leaving hoses attached will likely leave a small amount of water in the pipe which can quickly freeze, not to mention the water left in your hose can freeze and crack your hose. Insulated outdoor faucet covers should be placed over every exterior faucet. These come in two styles. They are found in dome shaped rigid thermal foam or thick insulated waterproof bags, both are effective and easy to install. Make sure to follow manufacturer instructions, but sealing it tight against the base of the faucet is key.
Avoid freezing pipes. Allowing the water to drip from the faucet of any exposed pipes and/or the farthest faucet from your main water valve will help to keep pipes from freezing. Use a little bit of hot and a little bit of cold so water is moving through both sides of your plumbing. If you’re leaving town or if you’re home and loose heat make sure to let faucets drip!! It only takes 6-8 hours at or below freezing for pipes to freeze and burst, and with the severe cold temperatures expected by much of the country this week anyone who loses their heat source could be at risk. Now is a good time to locate your main water shutoff valve if you don’t already know where it is, it will make things much easier in case of an emergency.
The pipes that are most at risk are those in unheated areas of your home such as the garage, basement, or attic. Hopefully those pipes are insulated, if not pipe insulation is very inexpensive and should be readily available at local hardware stores. The easiest to use looks like a pool noodle, you can cut them to fit exposed pipes and install it easily yourself. Keep doors closed to the garage and house to keep heat in and open cabinet doors in kitchens and bathrooms to allow the heat to get to exposed pipes, especially those along exterior walls.
Carry Chains and emergency supplies. If you’re going attempt driving in severe winter weather always carry chains and a roadside emergency kit (click here for a list of what should be included), don’t forget flares! In case you find yourself stuck or it is also important to carry plenty of warm clothes, blankets, flashlights and batteries, cell phone, portable charger, water and snacks.