US braces for freezing weather and severe winds: How should your home be prepared?

You and your home may suffer as a result of the extreme cold. Here are some precautions to take and guidelines to remember if it’s frigid outside, snowing, or windy where you are.

In case of a power outage, have extra batteries close at hand.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration advise keeping flashlights, extra batteries, and extra blankets. Along with a can opener, additional medication, first aid gear, heat in case of emergency, and a fire extinguisher. Stock up on nonperishable items, such as protein bars, almonds, and dry cereal. The National Weather Service advises a gallon of water per person every day for three days.

How To Stay Warm In Your Home

As far south as Texas and Florida, it will become below-freezing. If you must use a generator because the power is out, ensure you do so outside, at least 20 feet from your home. Every floor of your home needs to have a carbon monoxide monitor operational. Never use a camp stove, oven, or other appliance that burns charcoal to heat your home. Should never start a car with the garage door closed. 

When your heater is on, you may maintain a comfortable temperature and save your energy costs by drawing the curtains and taping the windows. Place rolled-up towels or rags at the bottom of entranceways and shut the doors of vacant rooms to maintain heat.

Before they freeze, protect the pipes.

According to the Protect Your Pipes project, supported by water and wastewater providers in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, you should set your thermostat to 55 degrees or higher in the winter. It suggests opening cabinets with pipes to keep them warm and turning on the taps farthest from your main valve because even a trickle of water will prevent pipes from freezing. Earlier than the temperature drops, Prot. Advises turning off outside spigots and removing water from the pipe.

Protect Your Pets

When it’s severely cold outside, keep pets warm, dry, and indoors whenever possible. Because dehydration is more dangerous in the winter, ensure they drink lots of water. Wear mittens and a hat outside, suggests the Weather Service.