Winter weather is here to stay… sadly. Snow, ice, and freezing rain can get in the way of you getting where you need to go. It also has the potential to cause damage to your home. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get through the winter safely and smartly.
1.) Make sure to go over your checklist for vehicle safety. Be sure to check these items as the weather becomes colder.
- Battery
- Lights
- Cooling System
- Windshield Area – including, Windshield Wiper Fluid
- Tires and Tire Pressure (Use the Penny Test below!)
- First Aid Kit
- Spare Tire
** It is also important to stock your car with items that can help you in winter related instances. Be sure to always have a windshield scraper for ice/snow, jumper cables, flashlight, blankets, a cell phone with a car charger, a tow rope/chain, and most importantly a first aid kit.
2.) The Penny Test. This Penny Test is designed to test if you need new tires for this upcoming winter.
3.) Do you know how to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting in extremely cold conditions?
Did you know that one of the biggest risks to property damage when the temperature drops is actually frozen/bursting pipes? In Louisville, in late December and early January we have experienced extremely cold weather (below freezing temperatures for two weeks straight!!). In this type of situation, it is important to know how to properly care for your home so you don’t have to deal with the damage and/or the clean up!
- Letting the water drip in extreme cold conditions can help prevent a pipe from freezing.
- If you are going on an extended trip, think about draining the water system. Turning off the main water valve and running the remaining water out of faucets can prevent water freezing in your pipes at home.
- Beware!! Pipes near outside walls, in attics, and in crawl spaces are all vulnerable to the potential for pipes freezing.
- Opening up cabinet doors to let warm air circulate can also be beneficial.
4.) If you have to drive in snowy conditions remember to put safety first. Drive slowly, be cautious of other people on the road, and watch for snow plows vehicles. These large vehicles are wide, stop frequently, and drive slowly. Be respect their space and time. The safest place is behind a snowplow so if I find yourself behind one use caution.
If you would like more information please visit these websites. They are full of great information about being safe this winter season!
- https://ntsi.com/quick-links/safety-articles/winter-driving/
- http://disastersafety.org/wp-content/uploads/Freezing-Bursting-Pipes_IBHS.pdf
- https://www.nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips