Prepare for winter the right way with these emergency tips!
In the winter, one expects to reside in the comfort of their homes, warm and safe from the cold. However, one never knows what could happen in winter. Unfortunately, a power outage is possible should heavy snows and winds come to your area. Even in Maryland, it is always best to be prepared in the event of a power outage. Below are several tips on how to prepare for a winter power outage.
Insulate Your Home
The first step is to winterize your home, to make it as comfortable as possible with or without power. One can do this by ensuring that your home is properly insulated. Adding insulation to the attic can also help. Another helpful insulation tip is to minimize cold air that can come through your windows and doors; if you are ready, you could install new windows and doors or just apply weatherstripping. Thermal curtains are also helpful.
Winterize Your Gutters & Pipes
Insulating your water pipes and cleaning out your gutters are the other parts of home winterization; these steps prevent serious water damage that could happen in winter. One can insulate pipes with homemade or store-bought insulating pipe sleeves. Meanwhile, keeping your gutters free of twigs, leaves, and other debris will prevent flooding around your home’s foundation.
Stock Up on Food & Water
While it’s important to keep your house safe, it’s also essential to keep yourselves well-stocked on food and water! It doesn’t hurt to keep some canned goods, freeze-dried foods, grains, and extra beverages in storage in case a winter power outage occurs. A portable fire pit or a similar device can be your way to heat up water and food.
Prevent Power Surges
Thankfully, all can expect a power outage to end. When it does end, though, the renewed electricity can damage appliances and electronics that are still plugged into the electrical outlets. To prevent a power surge from damaging your machinery, invest in power surge protectors or unplug appliances like major home appliances, computers, and televisions completely.
Invest in an Alternative Heating Source
One can also prepare for a winter power outage with a generator or another alternative heating source. If not a generator, one could try their fireplace. Just remember that the fireplace must be air-sealed from the house but open to the outside air in order to give more heat than it takes from a house.
QUESTIONS? NORTH ARUNDEL CONTRACTING IS HERE TO HELP!
If you have more questions about our services for your home or commercial facility, North Arundel Contracting is here to help you out. Our trained professionals can teach you everything there is to know about emergency and general contracting services. Call us any time at 410-766-2855 or reach us by fax at 410-553-2367. Feel free to send us an email at [email protected]. For after-hours emergencies, call us at 410-541-0328. For tips, tricks, and to see what we have been up to, be sure to follow us on Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.