Winter Preparedness Checklist

BE WINTER READY

This bulletin will help you to prepare for the harsh climate conditions during our winter months.

Prepare Your House!

  • Ensure all fire alarms in the house are working because of the frequent use of fire for heating.
  • Clean the fireplace more often in the winter. If the flue is blocked, smoke can be trapped in the house and cause respiratory problems.
  • To prevent furnace malfunction during cold temperatures, have the heating system maintained before winter.
  • Have a qualified contractor inspect the roof, the water pipes and the electrical system to find out whether the house will safely withstand the  stresses of winter.
  • Acquire an alternate heating source such as an electric heater to use in an emergency if you boiler/heating system goes down.
  • Learn how to turn off water mains, gas and electricity sources so you are well prepared in case of an emergency.

Put Together a Basic Survival Kit at Home!

  • Get enough supply of nonperishable food that will feed your household for several days.
  • Provide five gallons of drinking water per person and an adequate supply of medications that are prescribed
  • Include also manual can opener, blankets, matches, candles,   flashlights, battery-powered radios, extra batteries and a first aid kit.

Act Safely at Home!

  • Follow these simple tips to help keep you safe at home this winter:
  • Use only untreated wood in open fires as particles can fly off of wood  that is treated with certain flammable substances.
  • Keep extra blankets and flashlights on hand to prepare for any power outages.
  • Dress for the weather and ensure that children wear warm socks, gloves and warm hats when they play in the yard.
  • Cover all exposed skin when you are conducting work outside.
  • Pace yourself when shoveling snow as it can put a lot of stress on your back and on your heart

Prepare Your Vehicle!

Mare sure that the key systems in your vehicle are in top condition, these include:

  • windshield wipers
  • Brakes
  • defroster
  • heater
  • exhaust system
  • plug-in
  • Purchase snow tires for your car, to enhance traction and control.
  • Check your car fluids for proper levels and conditions (i.e. antifreeze and windshield washer fluid)
  • Check your tire, to ensure they are properly inflated and the tread is in good condition.  Note – Tires lose pressure during winter months.
  • Replace traditional wiper blades with snow blades.
  • Check your battery and alternator – you need more starting power in the cold weather.
  • Keep your vehicle clean during the winter – especially headlights,  windshield, windows and tail lights. This will make it easier for you to   see and be seen.
  • Keep your fuel topped off. If you get stuck in the snow, you will want to be able to run the engine to stay warm.
  • Carry kitty litter in the car in case the vehicle gets stuck. Placing kitty litter under the stuck tires – which should have the snow cleared away to help free the car – will allow for better traction.

Please share this with all your friends and colleagues and stay safe this winter !