Winter Safety Tips

Your Emergency Preparedness Checklist:

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In Your Automobile:

• Keep your fuel level at no less than 1/2 full at all times.

• Flashlight with fresh, spare batteries.

• Car charger for your cell phone.

• Battery Jumper Cables

  • Select a quality pair of jumper cables that have a heavy metal conductor (wire), adequate length, heavy insulation and metal clamp ends.

  • Learn the proper and safe way to use the jumper cables . Go to https://www.edmunds.com/how-to/jump-start.html for instructions on the proper connection procedure.

• Windshield ice scraper & brush.

• Insulated work gloves, extra clothing and blankets.

• Red Signal Flag(s). These can prove invaluable in poor weather conditions. If you choose emergency flares for this purpose, be sure to learn the proper and safe way to use the flares before you need to use them.

     

A Warning About Tow Chains and Tow Straps:  Chains and straps can be extremely dangerous if the manufacturer’s instructions are not followed, or if the equipment should fail. We recommend that all towing and extractions be performed by professionals with the proper equipment, training, and protective gear.

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At Home:

• Replace all smoke detector batteries (this should be done every six months).

• Have your heating system inspected by a professional.

• Have your chimney flues and vents cleaned and inspected by a professional.

• If you have a standby generator system, have it serviced and tested by a professional.

• Keep plenty of flashlights with fresh, spare batteries on hand. Remember that power outages can last for days.

• Battery operated radio with spare batteries.

• In the event of a power outage:

  • Post the emergency phone number for your utility providers in a conspicuous location.

  • Create a contingency plan for keeping warm

    • Standby generator and extra fuel positioned away from the house to prevent fire or inhalation hazards.

    • Dry and seasoned firewood staged close to the house for easy access

    • Know the location of the nearest public emergency shelter.

• Keep a snow shovel and traction enhancing products (for ice) at the door. A shovel in a detached building may be difficult to access once the snow and ice have fallen.

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