As we ease into the colder temperatures of late-November, Canadians everywhere are focusing on keeping their homes warm and comfortable. The winter season also means making some final preparations before the temperatures drops way down, including preparing for winter storms.

We always hope to make it through the winter season without serious winter storms or emergency situations, but it’s always best to be prepared — just in case.

• Start by putting together an emergency kit. This should include the following, plus anything else you and your family may need:
  • Thin, comfortable clothing for layering.
  • Several blankets.
  • Flashlights, candles and matches.
  • A portable space heater.
  • Snow shovels that are comfortable to use.
  • Rock salt or any other ice-melting agent.
  • Firewood for wood-burning stoves or fireplaces.

 Please remember that in the event of heat loss, you shouldn’t layer clothing to the point of sweating. You should try to maintain a comfortable body temperature as sweating will be uncomfortable and can lead to sickness.

•  Pipes are often in danger of freezing in the winter and especially during winter storms. If you think your pipes are likely to freeze, keep your taps trickling a little to help prevent this.
• Earlier this month, we encouraged everyone to participate in the “Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries” campaign. We advised our community to change the batteries of their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors when they adjusted their clocks for Daylight Saving Time. If you didn’t do so then, it’s vital to change your batteries now! Fires are much more common during winter storms when people use methods other than their furnaces to keep warm.
• Do you have a fully-stocked first aid kit? If not, be sure to replenish it with plenty of Band-Aids, antiseptics, over-the-counter pain medication and anything else your family may need in an emergency.
• The first aid kit should be kept in an accessible location along with extra batteries and a battery-powered radio. Fully-charged portable chargers also come in handy during a power-outage to keep cellphones functioning.
• Keep an area of your home well-stocked with at least a 3-day supply of water and food for each member of your family. If you have pets, ensure that they have enough food and water too.
• Finally, try to maintain as close to a full tank of gas as possible this season in the event of an emergency during or after winter storms.

It’s time to plan properly and go over emergency steps to take with your family — don’t get caught unaware this season!

Fahrhall Home Comfort Specialists are proud to offer top-quality products, service and installation across the Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent regions.

Questions? Contact us today!