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Sunday, Jan. 16, 2022 — With a potential “bomb cyclone” approaching the Northeast this weekend, we at disaster.guide thought some preparedness tips for freezing temperatures was a good topic to cover.
First, let’s take a look at how to keep you and your loved ones warm & well-informed, among other preparations, for a winter storm.
Suggested Items for Your At-Home Emergency Kit:
- Water (1 gallon per person, for 3-7 days)
- Non-perishable foods (ideally, foods that do not require preparation – Note: don’t forget the can opener!)
- Cell phone (charged), and charging device (including pre-charged devices for power outages, such as a power bank)
- Blankets and warm clothing (for people, and pets – always bring pets indoors during low temps, and have pet food & meds on hand)
- Sturdy outerwear (boots, heavy jacket, etc.)
- Medicines, toiletries, first aid kit, and other wellness necessities
- Flashlight, (weather) radio, and batteries (extra batteries on hand if possible, but – remember! There are always batteries in remotes, etc.)
- Important documents (ID, lease, deeds, insurance papers, medical & veterinarian records, etc.)
- Cash (in case ATMs are down during power outage)
- Contact list of loved ones, and list of phone numbers for local emergency services
… Be sure to gather all your supplies in one central location for easy access, particularly if power goes out. If there is a well-insulated room with less potential for heat escape (through doors, windows, floorboards, etc.) this might be a preferable gathering spot. You may also want to gradually raise the thermostat in your home to above your typical heating temperature to prepare for loss of heat (be cautious of heating equipment safety).
Home Tips for Freezing Temperatures:
- Disconnect & store garden hoses as a way to guard against outdoor fixtures freezing (you may also want to shut off & drain water to outdoor faucets)
- If your pipes are not well-insulated, run a drip of water through indoor faucet(s) to prevent pipes from freezing (also, open cabinets surrounding indoor pipes to allow heat to circulate around them)
- Insulate home/Seal holes and cracks – If there is time prior to the freeze arriving, better insulating your home and eliminating drafts by sealing holes & cracks will help keep the warm in and the cold out
- Keep your garage door closed, and check that your attic vents & soffits are not blocked (by insulation, etc.) – if there is time to safely do so prior to freezing temps, clear your gutters to lessen ice buildup on your roof (you may also want to consider installing gutter screens)
- Lay down extra area rugs or blankets, etc. in your “gathering room” – this will help keep the cold from creeping in, particularly through older bottom floors
- Be ready to leave if need be (in case of home storm damages or prolonged outages) – Have a “go bag” with accommodations for people & pets ready, have warm outer gear for all family members (boots, gloves, hat, heavy jacket), and if leaving by car be sure your car is winter safe – preferably with a car safety kit on board in your trunk or elsewhere
Have more tips to add to our lists? Contact us! We are happy to review your suggestions and revise accordingly.
Be prepared, Be safe, Be well,
– The disaster.guide Team
