As the cold weather begins to settle in, it’s that time of the year to consider the condition of your vehicles as well as your home for the winter season. Are they prepared to handle the winter elements? If you haven’t begun prepping for the cold weather yet, here are some helpful tips to get you ready for the winter season.
Get Your Home Winter Ready:
- Service your furnace and boiler systems and ensure your furnace vent is clear of ice and snow.
- You should be cleaning your chimney and flue regularly. Frequent cleans will assist in preventing chimney fires.
- Be sure to rid of any debris from eaves trough and downspouts to deflect water damage to your home, and stay away from nesting areas for insects or birds.
- To allow for effective water drainage from your foundation, ensure downspouts are extended away from your foundation by at least three feet.
- Any branches that are located near your roofline should be trimmed to avoid the possibility of ice or snow falling on yours or your neighbour’s property.
- Check your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. These should be present on every level of your home and especially close to bedrooms.
- Apply “snap-on” interior insulation sleeves to pipes for protection against extreme temperatures; otherwise these pipes could freeze, causing them to burst. It’s also important to drain your outside faucets, as the cold weather can cause the water trapped inside to freeze.
Tips to keep you safe on winter roads:
- It’s highly recommended that you to invest in winter tires. These are designed specifically to handle cold and icy conditions, allowing for better control on the road.
- There should be an emergency kit in your car at all times. This should consist of a blanket, flashlight, shovel, booster cables, flares, windshield washer fluid, and non-perishable snacks.
- Bring your vehicle in for regular maintenance. Be sure the technician verifies the condition of your brakes, windshield wipers and your battery.
- To keep your gas lines from freezing, always maintain a full gas tank.
- Be aware of the weather conditions prior to going out on the road. If they appear to be in poor condition, and it’s not necessary to drive anywhere, it’s best to stay indoors.
Severe winter weather can be troublesome. Implement these simple practices to avoid winter hassles, and keep your home and family safe. For more suggestions on best winter safety tips, please do not hesitate to contact Will Marshall, serving the Barrie and Orillia area at 705-726-2551.